Textbook Tensions Shake Education Dept | Johannesburg News

Tensions flare between Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube and Director-General Mathanzima Mweli over textbook procurement for 2027, sparking questions about accountability and leadership. Gwarube downplays the rift, calling it normal political-administrative friction, while insisting she must hold officials to account under the Public Finance Management Act—even if it’s seen as interference. A halt on the foundation phase catalogue was reinstated pending legal review, but the DG reportedly pushed provinces to order from it anyway. An independent probe revealed procedural flaws like hidden pricing rules and document noncompliance, prompting cautious updates for higher grades. Compounding the issue, the DG refused to participate in a mandated lifestyle audit with the Special Investigating Unit, raising alarms about transparency at the top. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Sources:https://www.businessday.co.za/news/education/2026-09-15-gwarube-downplays-standoff-with-education-dg-over-textbook-catalogue/ More coverage & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/4e483d04abecca76 Report issues to [email protected].