Private Invigilators Cry Foul Over Delayed Payments
Private invigilators engaged by the Botswana Examinations Council (BEC) have raised concerns over prolonged delays in payment, months after completing their examination duties.
Information from an anonymous source reveals growing frustration among invigilators, particularly those who worked during the Junior Certificate Examination (JCE) and Botswana General Certificate of Secondary Education (BGCSE) examinations.
While some JCE invigilators are reported to have received payment, a significant number, especially those involved in BGCSE, remain unpaid.
Some Chief invigilators are said to have approached BEC offices seeking clarity, amid indications that payments had begun. However, it is alleged that the payments prioritised teachers hired through government channels, excluding private invigilators.
This has reportedly caused confusion and discontent as private contractors claim they were not addressed in official communication regarding the payment process.
The source further alleges that no payments have been made for BGCSE invigilation work, despite earlier assurances that funds would be disbursed as early as December.
Many of the affected individuals are said to be unemployed and had relied on the invigilation work as a source of income.
Concerns have also been raised over alleged inconsistencies within BEC’s internal processes, with claims of poor coordination between departments contributing to the delays.
Some invigilators further allege that even those who have been paid particularly under JC have experienced unexplained deductions, which they claim is a recurring issue.
Frustrated invigilators are now demanding transparency from BEC, including clarity on how many individuals are scheduled to be paid in the coming days and a definitive timeline for settling all outstanding payments.
When contacted for comment, BEC spokesperson, Fikile Makgalemele declined to provide details, citing confidentiality constraints.
She stated that the council engages numerous individuals under private contracts and indicated that it would be inappropriate to disclose matters relating to such agreements.
She added that even if she had information regarding the payments, she would not be at liberty to share it publicly.