07 April 2025
SADTU FS MEDIA STATEMENT ON THE PAYMENT OF THIRD PARTIES BY DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
The South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (SADTU) in the Free State province issues this statement following the meeting held on 17 March 2025 between the Department of Education – led by the MEC, Head of Department and Chief Finance Officer – and Trade Unions within the PELRC, concerning the non-payment of third parties, which notable included GEMS benefits and had attracted media attention.
The Department of Education committed to settling all outstanding payments to third parties, including GEMS at the beginning of April 2025. We are pleased to confirm to our members that this commitment has been fulfilled. We further assure our members that, during the period of non – payment, their benefits were not disrupted as was communicated by the Department of Education to the Unions and through the media statement dated 18 March 2025.
However, SADTU notes with concern that in the lead-up to April 2025, GEMS sent alarming messages to members, indicating exorbitant amounts in arrears which caused panic to members and workers in general who belong to GEMS. Some members, already admitted in hospitals, faced psychological distress while others hesitated to approach healthcare providers for fear of being turned away. This unfortunate situation is unacceptable and should never happen again.
We call on our members to remain vigilant and to immediately report to the Union any ongoing medical issues or challenges with GEMS that may have arisen form this unfortunate episode.
Furthermore, the Department of Education has assured Unions that scheduled allocations to schools in May 2025 will be honoured. As SADTU, we will monitor the situation to ensure seamless continuity of teaching and learning in schools in May and beyond.
We remain steadfast in protecting the rights and interests of our members and will continue to engage with the Department to safeguard their welfare and the smooth functioning of schools.
ISSUED BY PROVINCIAL SECRETARIAT