The office of the Gauteng Premier has confirmed that over 1,300 foreign nationals are currently employed across key provincial departments, sparking questions about qualifications and employment justification. According to official figures, more than 700 foreign nationals work in the Education Department, while the Health Department employs over 600.
The figures were disclosed in response to a question posed by members of the legislature, prompting further scrutiny from provincial oversight bodies. Tlou Chokoe, a member of the oversight committee in the Premier’s office, highlighted that the committee is awaiting detailed information on the qualifications of these foreign nationals. “In addition, their status as naturalised South African citizens should form part of the requested supplementary information,” Chokoe said, emphasizing the need for transparency in the employment process.
Beyond education and health, foreign nationals are also employed in smaller numbers in other provincial departments. The Infrastructure Development Department employs five, while the Office of the Premier and the e-Government Department each have one foreign national on staff.
The disclosure has stirred public debate, particularly around the employment of foreigners in senior or strategic positions within provincial government departments. Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi has faced criticism following the revelation, with some stakeholders demanding swift action. The public backlash, amplified by social media, has focused on perceived implications for local employment and opportunities for South African citizens.
While the provincial government has yet to provide a full explanation regarding the hiring criteria, oversight bodies are closely monitoring the situation. The emphasis on qualifications and naturalisation status reflects ongoing concerns about accountability and adherence to employment policies within the province’s public service.
As this matter unfolds, the Gauteng Premier’s office and respective departmental authorities are expected to provide additional documentation to justify the employment of foreign nationals. The scrutiny highlights the delicate balance between ensuring skilled personnel in public service and addressing public concerns over job accessibility for South African citizens.
The debate is likely to continue as legislators and civil society groups await full disclosure of qualifications and employment justification for the more than 1,300 foreign nationals currently serving in Gauteng’s government departments.