ATM demands suspension of EC education HOD over R529.8 million crisis

The African Transformation Movement (ATM) has called for the immediate suspension of Mrs Sharon Maasdorp, Head of Department (HOD) of the Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE), following concerns over the withholding of R529.8 million in infrastructure funds by the National Department of Basic Education. The party said the decision to withhold the funds points to systemic failure and mismanagement within the department.

The withheld funds relate to the fourth transfer of the Education Infrastructure Grant (EIG) under the Division of Revenue Act 2025. According to the National Department of Basic Education, the funds were not used in line with the stipulated guidelines. The R529.8 million is intended to improve school infrastructure across the province, but irregularities in the allocation and utilisation of these funds have put educational projects at risk.

The ATM said Maasdorp had repeatedly shown a disregard for governance protocols. Reports from the party indicate she failed to follow the procurement framework and EIG stipulations, resulting in unauthorised expenditures. ATM spokesperson Zama Ntshona said these actions have contributed directly to the funding crisis.

The party also accused Maasdorp of ignoring directives from the MEC and other oversight bodies, taking decisions that undermined departmental operations. According to the ATM, her unilateral approach has caused operational dysfunction and a loss of confidence among stakeholders.

The suspension of Mr Mduba, which the ATM described as procedurally irregular, was cited as further evidence of Maasdorp’s lack of adherence to due process. The party said the simultaneous issuance of the notice of intention to suspend and the suspension letter indicated premeditated action that undermines fairness and transparency.

The ATM warned that the consequences of these actions go beyond financial implications, affecting the education of students across the province. The withholding and misallocation of infrastructure funds jeopardise the quality of education in schools that are already struggling with overcrowded classrooms, poor facilities, and inadequate basic amenities.

In light of the allegations, the ATM has urged Premier Oscar Mabuyane and MEC Fundile Gade to take decisive action to restore accountability in the Eastern Cape Department of Education. The party called for a transparent investigation into Maasdorp’s conduct and the decisions made under her leadership.

“The immediate suspension of Sharon Maasdorp is necessary to uphold the integrity of the department and ensure that the withheld funds are released and properly utilised for the benefit of schools,” said Ntshona.

The ATM emphasised that action against Maasdorp is required to prevent further mismanagement that could negatively affect the educational prospects of learners in the province. The party said it will continue monitoring the situation and expects government leaders to act promptly to resolve the crisis.