Mdantsane Principal accused of blowing over R1 Million from school funds

MDANTSANE- A high-performing Mdantsane school has been rocked by allegations that its principal, Mihlali Makhalima misused over R1 million meant for learners’ food, study materials and school maintenance. Makhalima, the head of Ulwazi High School is accused of diverting school funds for personal use including spending on fine dining, fuel and other non-school-related expenses.

Bank statements seen by investigators reportedly show that about R250,000 was spent at East London’s upscale restaurants Grazia Fine Food & Wine and La Granto. Another R450,000 was withdrawn from ATMs, while R220,000 was spent at retail stores, with an average monthly withdrawal of around R42,000. Further spending is said to have occurred at Hungry Lion, Pep, Boxer, Shoprite, butcheries, liquor stores, EKoneni Lounge, car washes and hardware stores.

When questioned by the Sunday Times publication, Makhalima defended some of the purchases, stating, “This liquor store you see, I didn’t buy alcohol I bought meat. They sell alcohol and meat here.”

Leaners however, described poor food conditions at the school. “We eat plain samp. Sometimes it’s rice with chicken livers or cabbage,” said one of the 1,200 learners.

Makhalima also admitted that food was often purchased for long meetings, saying, “When we have a meeting that lasts more than four hours, we eat KFC. The SGB and executive board meet every Tuesday.”

According to bank records, some school governing body (SGB) members and teachers may have benefited from school funds through cash, fuel and food allowances. Other records show shopping at China Mall in East London, though Makhalima declined to comment on those transactions.

Eastern Cape Department of Education spokesperson Mali Mtima confirmed that Makhalima has been removed from his position pending an investigation. “Mr. Makhalima has been suspended while investigations continue. The department takes the matter seriously,” Mtima said.