The implementation of the anti-corruption strategy in the Eastern Cape department of education

Abstract

The aim of the study is to ascertain whether the Eastern Cape Department of Education has set up the minimum anti-corruption capacity requirements in line with the Public Service, Anti-Corruption Strategy; as directed by a Cabinet resolution of 2003. In the light of the continued prevalence of corruption within the department the study sought to ascertain whether systems exists within the department to deter, prevent, detect and combat corruption. The literature review indicated that the definition of the corruption is as varied as its causes and different types. There is mere agreement in the literature that corruption is the misuse of public power for private gain. Anti­Corruption Strategies involve the criminalization of corruption through legislation and the setting up of ant-corruption agencies amongst others. In order to achieve the objectives of the study, two instruments were used to collect data, the mail questionnaire and interview survey. The main findings that came out of the collected data indicated that the respondents were not aware of the departmental anti-corruption strategy. The department has engaged a service provider to draft such a strategy to be ready by the middle of the 2008/09 financial year. It would be advisable for the department to finalise the adoption and implementation of such strategy in the light of the various policy and legislative requirements that have to be complied with.