Steenkamp wants toxic-free workplaces in schools

Executive director of education, arts and culture Sanet Steenkamp has asked principals to address toxic workplace environments.

Sanet made these remarks on Desert Radio in a welcoming message to principals, teachers and members as the ministry embarks on the last semester.

“We urge all our principals to continuously foster a positive workplace culture with trust, mutual understanding, respect, compassion and a commitment for our common goals,” she says.

Steenkamp says the staff needs to create an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated by harnessing the creativity and expertise of department heads, teachers and staff.

“We will continue to instil a sense of pride, recognition, purpose and joy in our workplace, and by doing that, create an exceptional workplace where everybody feels happy to return to work,” she says.

Steenkamp asks principals to remember that schools are inclusive workplaces and they should be places where diversity is valued.

“We need to be unified in the teaching profession, and we need to focus on our common goals. To do that, we need strong leadership and influence,” she said.