NW Education Dept. Seeks Funds From Former Staff
Why this is here: The department identified over 2,100 cases of overpayment totaling R24 million, seeking to recover funds from individuals no longer employed by the North West education system.
The North West department of education is attempting to recover over R24 million paid to former employees. The department attributes the payments to late submission of termination documents, particularly from rural areas. Salaries are processed in advance, creating a risk of overpayment when employee records aren't updated promptly.
The auditor-general identified over R100 million in staff debts during a 2022/23 review, including payments to resigned, retired, or deceased individuals. The department has identified 2,128 cases and requested repayment via acknowledgement of debt forms over the last three years.
The Public Servants Association (PSA) disputes the explanation, calling for a full audit and citing a breakdown in financial controls and oversight. The department has implemented a new electronic system to update employee information in real time and has issued 24 disciplinary and 64 warning letters to staff.