MEDIA STATEMENT
06 August 2025
SADTU North west Response to the MEC’s Call for Educators to Resign or be Suspended.
The South African Democratic Teachers’ Union in the North West (SADTU NW) notes with great concern and disappointment the recent public remarks made by the Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Education during a meeting in DR Ruth Segomotsi Mompati with GR 12 Underperforming schools, calling for educators to either resign or face suspension for underperformance.
As a union that represents the interests and rights of educators, we find such statement to be reckless, demoralizing, and counterproductive to the stability and morale of the education system. Educators are the backbone of our public education and continue to serve under extremely challenging conditions, including overcrowded classrooms, under-resourced schools, and limited support.
Instead of threatening educators, we call upon the MEC to engage with relevant stakeholders, including unions, in good faith and through established structures to address concerns or grievances. A blanket call for resignations or suspensions undermines due process, promotes fear, and risks violating the principle of fair labour practice as enshrined in the constitution and the Labour Relations Act.
SADTU reaffirms its commitment to quality public education and the professional conduct of its members. We stand ready to work with the Department of Education North West to address legitimate concerns through constructive dialogue, but we will not hesitate to defend our members against intimidation and unfair treatment.
SADTU finds it unacceptable that a public representative would resort to threats and intimidation rather than constructive engagement to resolve matters affecting educators.
We call on the MEC to desist and refrain from such utterances when engaging with educators. We urge the Department to foster a climate of respect, engagement, and accountability. The future of our learners and the integrity of the education system depend on it.
ISSUED BY: SADTU North West Secretariat