The Eastern Cape education department has been rocked by an alleged workplace harassment incident involving two senior officials.
This follows an alleged altercation between the media liaison officer for education MEC Fundile Gade and the director of communications, who are both charged with harassment-related misconduct during working hours.
Serious concerns regarding workplace behaviour and accountability in the public department have been raised by the incident, which has infuriated the staff.
Sources with knowledge of the situation claim that the altercation involved actions that were against government regulations, prompting stakeholders to demand immediate action.
In response to the accusations, the education department in the Eastern Cape has since released a statement.
“The department stands firmly against any form of harassment or bullying in the workplace,” the department said in a statement.
“Such actions are unacceptable and go against the principles of a professional work environment.”
The department has placed the two employees on precautionary suspension pending a comprehensive investigation after consulting the National Education, Health and Allied Workers’ Union.
Independent investigation underway
“We are committed to ensuring justice and transparency. An independent investigation team has been appointed to probe the matter, and disciplinary action will be taken based on the findings,” according to the statement.
With an emphasis on the provincial public service and administration department’s prevention and elimination of harassment in the public service world of work policy, the education department is introducing extensive training programmes for all employees to address systemic problems and stop similar incidents in the future.
This policy covers physical, sexual, discriminatory, psychological, bullying, and retaliatory harassment.
“These training sessions are necessary to promote a culture of respect and ethical conduct,” said the department.
The department has emphasised the training’s role in fostering better workplace relations and encouraged all staff members to take part.
“We call on our staff to embrace this opportunity to build a better, more inclusive work environment,” it said.
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