The Services Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) has committed to taking corrective action for employees who were dismissed after exposing maladministration within the organisation.
Lehloma Ramajoe, Thandi Mkhize, and Tshepiso Mofokeng were previously dismissed after reporting alleged irregularities at the entity. However, following a recent investigation conducted under administration, their claims have now been substantiated.
Administrator Lehlogonolo Masoga, speaking at a media briefing in Pretoria, emphasized the importance of protecting whistleblowers rather than punishing them.
“We cannot accept that those who speak out against corruption are victimised and targeted. The Whistleblower Protection Bill will be introduced in Parliament to criminalise retaliation and provide psychosocial, legal, and financial support to whistleblowers,” Masoga said.
Masoga confirmed that the dismissals were found to be unfair and that corrective measures are being implemented, which may include reinstatement of the affected employees.
“On behalf of Services SETA, I take full responsibility for the actions and inactions of my predecessors and commit to delivering justice to those impacted by past decisions. We remain committed to decisive and timely action in pursuit of good governance,” he added.
The Administrator also revealed that an investigation is underway into why the entity failed to act on a prior Public Protector’s report that had flagged similar concerns. A new probe has since been launched, with the organisation cooperating fully alongside investigations by the Hawks.
Masoga further noted widespread non-compliance within the entity, including irregularities in procurement processes and staff appointments. He acknowledged that staff morale remains low, underscoring the need for urgent reform within Services SETA.