The South African Democratic Teachers' Union (SADTU) has refuted claims that it instructed schools in KwaZulu-Natal to postpone mid-year examinations. This comes after a Durban high school informed parents that exams for Grades 8 to 12 would be put on hold, citing SADTU as the reason for the disruption.
SADTU’s provincial secretary, Nomarashiya Caluza, clarified that the union has not called for the suspension of any exams. Instead, members are participating in a "work-to-rule" protest, limiting their duties to the standard seven-hour workday in response to ongoing funding shortages. This includes refraining from supervising extra classes and after-school activities.
“That decision [to postpone exams] lies with individual schools and the head of department, not SADTU,” said Caluza. “Many schools are struggling to conduct exams simply because they lack the resources. The department provides only a single copy of each paper, expecting schools to handle their own printing. Without adequate funding, this becomes impossible.”
Caluza stressed that the logistical challenges—rather than union pressure—are likely behind the exam delays in some schools.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education has acknowledged the financial strain. Spokesperson Muzi Mahlambi confirmed that budget cuts are at the heart of the issues raised by unions and educators.
“We are confident that these disruptions will be short-lived,” said Mahlambi. “Engagements with the unions are ongoing, and we are working towards a collective and amicable solution.”
As the province grapples with tightening finances and mounting pressure on public schools, both officials and unions appear committed to finding a path forward—without compromising learners’ academic progress.