The turbulent times at Tulip Combined Secondary School continued as the fallout from the removal of principal Noluthando Nyandeni sends ripples through the community. Disgruntled parents demanded answers from the Directors as they protested outside the school on Wednesday, 15 January.
After directing their outrage at the Gauteng Department of Education the previous day, angry parents brought their grievances to the steps of the school. Enraged parents are protesting about the school’s decision to revoke bursaries awarded by the ousted principal. A formal inquiry found Ms Nyandeni guilty of 13 charges related to mismanagement resulting in her removal from the position.
Caught in the crossfire in the wrangling between parents and Directors are children trying to get an education. The late notice of the decision has thrown this year’s preparation into disarray, explained School Governing Body member Chaka Tekane. “We received an SMS on Monday saying the bursaries were canceled and that we had to pay before the children could come back. I have two children in the school so needed R6 000 in two days, it’s crazy,” said Tekane.
The Gauteng Department of Education has yet to comment but Russel Wolpe, Director of the non-profit organisation that funds the school, confirmed that all bursaries have been canceled. “Bursaries are not a right. There is a lengthy process that aims at identifying the right candidates and bursaries were being given to friends and family. We have closed that door and are cleaning up the school. The new bursaries will be given on merit,” Wolpe said firmly.
The parents of the children are standing firm though. Led by Mike Motaung of the Economic Freedom Fighters, they want answers and wish to be addressed by the Directors of the school. “We are fighting against the unfair treatment of Ms Nyandeni, we want them to address their refusal to renew the bursaries and we want them to reinstate Ms Nyandeni as principal,” said Motaung. His sentiments were shared by another parent, Mr Fororangaka who stressed, “We are fighting for the future of these kids. We want the old principal back. She understands discipline”.
The theme was singular among all the parents present as they all reiterated the call to bring back Ms Nyandeni. While claiming he felt this was a protest instigated by Ms Nyandeni, Russel Wolpe was clear on his position on her return saying, “After a formal inquiry, she was found guilty of mismanagement. She is not coming back”.
