The Educators’ Union of South Africa has voiced its rejection of a decision made by the South African Council of Educators (SACE), which governs the conduct of educators outside of school hours. Conversely, Naptosa endorses SACE’s code of professional ethics, which mandates that teachers maintain proper behavior both during and outside of their official duties.
SACE has established this code of conduct to guarantee that teachers consistently demonstrate a high level of professionalism. The council stated that educators who fail to uphold standards of good conduct both in the classroom and when off duty risk damaging their professional status.
SACE clarified that teachers in South Africa can face disciplinary measures for severe misconduct even when they are away from school and not on duty. Examples of such behavior include engaging in physical altercations, making threats via social media, or operating a vehicle while intoxicated, all of which can jeopardize their careers.
This regulatory action follows several reports concerning teachers involved in cyberbullying, fights in taverns, and drunk driving incidents.
Scelo Bengu, the President of the Educators Union of South Africa, announced the union's opposition to the ruling. He argued that teachers possess a personal life separate from their educational roles and should not be required to follow professional standards outside the classroom setting. Bengu contended that while a code of conduct is acceptable for issues directly related to schooling, such as inappropriate contact with a student, it should not apply to actions taken in private settings, like swearing in a tavern, as these environments are unrelated to work.
Furthermore, Bengu criticized SACE for deducting millions of rands from teachers' salaries without allocating those funds to necessary areas. He suggested that SACE should focus on educating teachers about the Employment of Educators Act, particularly regarding recent amendments, through practical workshops.
In contrast, the National Professional Teachers Organisation of South Africa (Naptosa) welcomed SACE's initiative. Spokesperson Thirona Govender commented that this aligns with workplace regulations in numerous other sectors, a principle reinforced by the courts. Govender emphasized that teachers must uphold their profession everywhere and serve as exemplary role models.
Dr Jeeva Naidoo, a principal from Chatsworth, asserted that teachers are effectively on duty around the clock. He stressed the importance of leading by example for both students and the wider community, whether through adherence to dress codes or punctuality. Naidoo noted that since schools enforce codes of conduct for pupils, teachers must mirror this standard; he acknowledged having a private life but warned that poor off-duty behavior could lead to association with their schools.
A teacher from Shallcross, who requested anonymity, expressed disagreement with SACE's ruling, stating that the division between work and home should remain private. She felt that the government was encroaching upon personal lives and dictating freedom of expression.