More than 119000 educators in seven provinces have not been checked against the National Register for Sex Offenders three years after mandatory vetting began in 2023. Provincial departments cite delays from incomplete applications and slow processing by SAPS and the Department of Justice.
The National Register for Sex Offenders has recorded individuals convicted of sexual offences against children since 2009. Figures obtained from provincial education departments show uneven progress with many applications still outstanding. Western Cape Education Department spokesperson Bronagh Hammond said incomplete forms and police clearance certificates taking one to four months caused delays. North West and Mpumalanga departments reported similar issues with non-compliant applications and limited resources. The Education Labour Relations Council recorded 114 misconduct cases in the 2024/25 financial year resulting in 59 guilty findings. In 2025/26 it handled 139 cases with 40 guilty outcomes. The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development said it continues to process requests while reviewing access protocols.
