By Charmaine Ndlela
Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has called for an urgent investigation into alleged irregularities in a R1.6 billion textbook procurement process for Grade 1 to 3 learners.
The move follows a News24 investigation which reported that Lighthouse Publishers (Pty) Ltd — a company with no established publishing track record — was awarded a substantial portion of the tender shortly after its registration.
Gwarube confirmed that she has written to Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, requesting the National Treasury to probe the matter.
“I have noted with serious concern media reports containing allegations of procurement irregularities in the textbook procurement process,” she said.
The tender affects learning materials for more than 13.7 million learners, raising concerns about the potential impact on the education system.
According to reports, Lighthouse Publishers was registered just three days after tender specifications were issued, yet received over a quarter of approvals for foundation phase materials — potentially earning more than R285 million.
Gwarube warned that any compromise in the procurement process could have far-reaching consequences.
“Any compromise in the integrity of textbook procurement directly threatens the ability of the education system to function effectively and undermines the constitutional right of every child to access basic education,” she said.
She stressed that the National Treasury, as the custodian of procurement compliance, is best placed to assess the allegations before further action is taken.
“Should the investigation uncover malfeasance, I will not hesitate to act. Any and all those implicated will be dealt with,” she said.
The developments have triggered broader political concern, with ActionSA calling for a transparent and comprehensive investigation into the tender process, stressing the need to safeguard public funds and protect learners’ interests.
In a separate development, Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Social Development has raised alarm over allegations involving the Minister of Social Development.
Committee chairperson Bridget Masango said claims reported by Daily Maverick suggest that a state-paid employee may have been used for private domestic work and allegedly forced to return part of her salary.
“If true, this is not just a technical breach of rules but a violation of public trust. Public money is not personal money,” Masango said.
She added that the allegations raise serious concerns about compliance with the Public Finance Management Act and ethical governance standards.
The committee has requested a full briefing from the department and indicated that the minister will be called to account.
“As part of its oversight responsibility, the committee will formally request a full briefing from the department. The Minister will also be invited to appear before the committee to respond to these allegations,” Masango said.
INSIDE EDUCATION
