Teachers Warned of Job and Transfer Scams

By Ilyana Sithole

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has issued an urgent alert to teachers applying for transfers or new jobs, warning them against increasing scams targeting applicants. The Ministry stated that corrupt agents are impersonating recruitment agents or officials and taking advantage of teachers’ ambitions.

These deceivers are said to be demanding advance payment from teachers, offering them imaginary quick transfers or guaranteed jobs in the education system. The Ministry has also found the issuance of forged appointment letters and transfer papers, which were meant to trick unsuspecting teachers into thinking that their applications have been accepted.

In light of this development, the Ministry highly recommends that all teachers should be extremely cautious and follow the following principles:
* Verification is Key: Always verify the authenticity of any transfer notice or job offer directly with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education headquarters or the concerned district education offices. Do not rely on information provided by unauthorized parties.
* Official Channels: Confirm the authenticity of any transfer letters received by checking them through proper government channels. Call your current and potential district offices for confirmation.
* Report Suspicious Activity: Whoever is requesting money for employment placements or fast-forward transfers must be reported immediately to the nearest police station or the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education. As much detail as possible should be communicated so that authorities can trace and catch such criminals.

The Ministry highlighted that legal recruitment and transfer procedures in the public education system never involve advance payments. Teachers are asked to be vigilant and inform their colleagues about this vital information to avoid further loss of money and stress. Authorities have assured that such fake activities are being investigated and that they are determined to take the correctors to court.