R100m Printing Deal Sparks Outrage

SA – The Public Servants Association (PSA) has on 5 June 2025 strongly condemned the North West Department of Education for awarding a R100 million contract to print matric exam papers — nearly four times the previous cost of R27 million.

The PSA raised concerns about the lack of transparency and questioned why the secure, state-owned Government Printing Works was bypassed. At a time when rural learners walk long distances without transport and many schools face crumbling infrastructure and poor sanitation, the PSA believes this spend is both excessive and misplaced.

They are calling for a full forensic investigation into the deal, urging the department to redirect resources toward learner transport, school safety, and infrastructure upgrades. “Education funding must address real needs, not be wasted on questionable contracts,” the PSA said.