| 1. |
The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) recognises the right of its employees to pursue political careers, in terms of our country's constitution. |
| 2. |
However, it is also committed to ensuring learners' right to a secure and stable learning environment. |
| 3. |
It is important to note that WCED employees may not use official time and/or state premises to canvass for or advance political party interests. |
| 4. |
WCED employees who wish to assist the IEC during the upcoming local elections must apply for permission to perform remunerated work outside the public service (RWOPS) by no later than 22 July 2016 and submit their applications to their district office or director at Head Office. Applicants will be informed by 29 July 2016 whether their applications for RWOPS have been successful. Only employees whose applications for RWOPS have been approved will be eligible to assist the IEC during the local elections. |
| 5. |
Heads of educational institutions and directors of education districts are requested to consider the operational requirements of their institutions before approving the leave applications for employees who want to participate in Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) training and perform duties at voting stations. |
| 6. |
The legal framework, policy measures and conditions regulating the involvement of WCED employees in the local elections are clearly outlined in the attached annexures:
Annexure A1 - Local Elections (Full-time)
Annexure A2 - Local Elections (Part-time) |
| 7. |
Heads of educational institutions and directors of education districts are requested to ensure that the content of this circular and its annexures are brought to the attention of all employees. Every employee should sign the document as proof that he or she is familiar with the content thereof and should complete the necessary RWOPS documents (Annexure B) pertaining to additional remuneration. |
SIGNED: PA VINJEVOLD
HEAD: EDUCATION
DATE: 2016:07:14
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