A forensic investigation in Gauteng has uncovered a case of fraud involving a former teacher who deceitfully obtained paid maternity leave by falsely claiming to be pregnant.
Helena Jooste, who was employed at Laudium Secondary School in Pretoria, applied for maternity leave in June 2016. She commenced her leave in August and returned to work in December of that same year. To support her application, she submitted a medical certificate purportedly signed by a doctor at Netcare Pretoria East Hospital.
The investigation, commissioned by Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s office, revealed that the medical certificate was completely fraudulent. Investigators contacted the doctor whose signature appeared on the document, who confirmed that Jooste had not been a patient at the practice since 2008.
The report expressed concern over the ease with which the fraudulent document was accepted, noting that doctors typically use a standard format for medical certificates, which is completed by hand only after examining a patient.
Despite allegations being brought to the attention of the school principal at the time, no action was taken, and Jooste continued to receive her full salary throughout the four months.
The investigation also verified Jooste’s academic qualifications, confirming that her matric certificate from Sutherland High School and her B.Ed degree from the University of Pretoria were authentic.
Jooste resigned from her position just one month after returning from the fraudulent leave. In her resignation letter, she expressed a need for a fresh start, acknowledging the emotional harm she had caused.
The report has recommended that the Gauteng Department of Education recover the sum of R71,170.97, the salary she earned during the leave, potentially by deducting it from her pension fund.
Furthermore, it is strongly advised that a criminal case be opened against her and that she be blacklisted from the Persal system to prevent future employment in the public sector. The case has raised significant concerns about oversight and verification processes within the department.
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cc: Linda Ikeji
