By Motshwari Mofokeng
The acting principal of Seatides Combined School has been suspended while a forensic audit investigates allegations of financial mismanagement linked to the construction of the school’s new hall.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing, with an interim principal appointed to ensure the school continues operating without disruption.
According to School Governing Body chairperson Kerusha Chetty, acting principal Ruvandhiran Naidoo was suspended as part of standard departmental procedures and not as disciplinary action. The audit follows concerns raised by parents over the funding and construction of the hall, which they claim was financed through school fees and fundraising without adequate consultation.
Parents also alleged irregularities, including inflated invoices, prompting the department to launch a forensic investigation. The School Governing Body has requested full disclosure of the school’s financial records, including income, expenditure, liabilities and any unauthorised spending.
Acting deputy principal Anthony Chellan has assumed leadership during the investigation. The department stated investigators will examine financial records, procurement processes and interview witnesses before compiling a report that could recommend disciplinary action, recovery of funds or referral to law enforcement if wrongdoing is established. The audit’s completion date has not yet been announced.
Email: motshwari@onenews.co.za
