It has been confirmed that social media medical practitioner Matthew Bongani Lani attended a school for learners with special educational needs.
In a statement on Wednesday, the department of education in Gauteng said Lani does not have a matric because he dropped out of Fourways Adult Centre in 2016.
According to the department Lani, who posed on social media as a medical practitioner, enrolled at Bordeaux Primary School in Randburg, northwest of Johannesburg in 2007.
Steve Mabona, spokesperson for the department, said records show that in 2010 Lani was referred to Gresswold Learners with Special Educational Needs (LSEN) School in Kew, also in Johannesburg.
“This followed an evaluation at the time, which determined that his academic performance dictated that he be transferred to an LSEN school,” Mabona said.
“Subsequently, his academic journey at Gresswold LSEN School came to an end in September 2012.”
Lani reportedly re-emerged on the department’s system in 2016 at the Fourways Adult Centre, where he wrote three subjects as a part-time candidate.
“He only passed one of those subjects. Based on these records and further verified information at our disposal from Umalusi, we can confirm that Matthew Bongani Lani does not possess a matric certificate.”
Umalusi sets and monitors standards for general and further education and training in South Africa in accordance with the National Qualifications Framework Act 67 of 2008.
On Tuesday, health authorities denied having worked with the popular TikTok “medical practitioner”.
Despite the Gauteng health department registering a criminal case against Lani, he maintains that he is a qualified doctor, and that he worked for Helen Joseph Hospital in Johannesburg.
In one of the videos on TikTok, he shared that he obtained his high school diploma from Cambridge International College in England before enrolling at Wits University for a medical degree.
He also told his followers that he skipped three primary and high school grades – grade four, six, and eight.
Lani has since released a statement saying his lawyers are dealing with the matter.
“I am still consulting with my legal team about my ability to post online,” Lani said.
“There are numerous cases opened against me and I am taking all necessary precautions to ensure that my actions do not prejudice the outcome of any of these cases.
“I am aware that there is a lot of speculation and misinformation circulating about my legal situation. However, I must also respect the legal process and protect my rights.”
