Western Cape Education Department alerts teachers to WhatsApp job scam

A NUMBER of new, unemployed and substitute teachers have fallen victim to a scam promising them permanent teaching posts if they paid the demanded amount of money.

The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) has confirmed that several schools have recently reported incidents involving WhatsApp messages sent to young teachers.

“These messages typically claim to be from a district official or school principal, stating that a permanent post has become available at a particular school and that the recipient is the preferred candidate. The message instructs the teacher to report to a school with specific documentation,” said the WCED.

The message also requests a “once-off fee” of about R2800 allegedly required for the “authorisation of an appointment letter” at district offices, accompanied by banking details.

The department said the scam has caused significant distress to the affected individuals and has the potential to damage the reputations of schools, principals, and district officials who are being impersonated.

“We urge all affected individuals to report these incidents to the South African Police Service (SAPS) for investigation. While these investigations are ongoing, we want to warn the broader public to be aware of this scam.”

“We sincerely hope that no further individuals fall victim to this malicious scam, which not only undermines the reputation of our staff and institutions, but also shatters the aspirations of young professionals seeking meaningful employment opportunities in education.”

The department has advised that:

- Permanent teaching posts are advertised only through the WCED’s Directorate: Recruitment and Selection.

- The WCED (including Head Office, District Offices, and Schools) will never request payment for job applications or appointments.

- The online E-Recruitment System is the official platform for advertising and applying for posts.

- Unemployed educators must register and apply via the E-Recruitment System.Temporary appointments are managed directly by schools; applicants must verify the legitimacy of any advertised post.

- No payment is required for any appointment within the WCED.

- Suspicious activity must be reported immediately to the WCED and SAPS.

Cape Times