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Headmistress disrespecting the community, lying to authorities
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In Mbembesi, Lupane, tensions have escalated between parents of learners at Mlonyeni Primary School and the school's headmistress, Ms Abigail Mpinga, amidst allegations of mismanagement, disrespect towards the community, and financial impropriety.
Situated in the Phulula area near the Mbembesi River, the school serves over 300 learners. Ms Mpinga, who has been headmistress for nearly eight years, is accused of misusing funds and failing to cooperate with parents. These accusations mirror similar claims that forced her departure from four previous schools.
On December 27 and again last Wednesday, Ms Mpinga reportedly ignored scheduled meetings with parents. In response, parents locked the school, demanding her removal. She subsequently reported the situation to the police, alleging that members of the Mthwakazi Republic Party (MRP) had invaded the premises and threatened her. However, investigations revealed that those accused were actually parents and village heads on a fact-finding mission.
Following the incident, a meeting was convened on January 8 with Ministry of Education officials, acting Chief Mabhikwa, local authorities, and other stakeholders. Ms Mpinga did not attend the meeting, raising further concerns.
Parents have raised issues concerning the misuse of school funds, including US$150 spent on personal items and US$800 claimed as an allowance for attending a conference. Community members are calling for her immediate transfer and increased transparency in the school's administration.
Mr Thabani Mavengele Sibanda, the School Development Committee (SDC) chairperson, confirmed the parents' grievances, stating:
"We have a problem with the headmistress who doesn't respect parents and fails to cooperate. The school has seen no development during her tenure, and parents no longer want her to remain in charge."
Acting Chief Mabhikwa criticised Ms Mpinga for disrespecting the community and for providing false reports about being victimised on tribal grounds. He further mentioned that auditors have been sent to the school, with a report expected shortly.
"Parents locked the school, but we intervened to ensure lessons resume on time. We will convene a meeting on January 14 to address the issue and resolve it as stakeholders," said Acting Chief Mabhikwa.
Lupane District Schools Inspector, Mr Lovemore Ncube, confirmed the ongoing investigations and urged parents to allow Government procedures to take their course.
"I received a preliminary report from inspectors, and auditors are also preparing findings. A meeting is scheduled for Tuesday to determine the way forward," he said.
As stakeholders prepare for today's meeting, parents and authorities alike are hopeful for a resolution that prioritises the welfare of learners and the integrity of the school.
Situated in the Phulula area near the Mbembesi River, the school serves over 300 learners. Ms Mpinga, who has been headmistress for nearly eight years, is accused of misusing funds and failing to cooperate with parents. These accusations mirror similar claims that forced her departure from four previous schools.
On December 27 and again last Wednesday, Ms Mpinga reportedly ignored scheduled meetings with parents. In response, parents locked the school, demanding her removal. She subsequently reported the situation to the police, alleging that members of the Mthwakazi Republic Party (MRP) had invaded the premises and threatened her. However, investigations revealed that those accused were actually parents and village heads on a fact-finding mission.
Following the incident, a meeting was convened on January 8 with Ministry of Education officials, acting Chief Mabhikwa, local authorities, and other stakeholders. Ms Mpinga did not attend the meeting, raising further concerns.
Parents have raised issues concerning the misuse of school funds, including US$150 spent on personal items and US$800 claimed as an allowance for attending a conference. Community members are calling for her immediate transfer and increased transparency in the school's administration.
Mr Thabani Mavengele Sibanda, the School Development Committee (SDC) chairperson, confirmed the parents' grievances, stating:
Acting Chief Mabhikwa criticised Ms Mpinga for disrespecting the community and for providing false reports about being victimised on tribal grounds. He further mentioned that auditors have been sent to the school, with a report expected shortly.
"Parents locked the school, but we intervened to ensure lessons resume on time. We will convene a meeting on January 14 to address the issue and resolve it as stakeholders," said Acting Chief Mabhikwa.
Lupane District Schools Inspector, Mr Lovemore Ncube, confirmed the ongoing investigations and urged parents to allow Government procedures to take their course.
"I received a preliminary report from inspectors, and auditors are also preparing findings. A meeting is scheduled for Tuesday to determine the way forward," he said.
As stakeholders prepare for today's meeting, parents and authorities alike are hopeful for a resolution that prioritises the welfare of learners and the integrity of the school.
Source - the chronicle
