KNYSNA NEWS - An intervention that will allow new local school uniform suppliers to produce and sell uniforms for Fraaisig Primary School may be on the cards.

An intervention has been discussed, and a memorandum of understanding between the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) and local uniform suppliers and seamstresses is expected to be signed.

The initiative aims to give parents the opportunity to make use of a supplier of their choice, rather than relying solely on a single existing provider.

The intervention follows a parents' meeting, as well as a series of meetings held over recent weeks between local suppliers and seamstresses, Fraaisig Primary's School Governing Body (SGB), and representatives from the WCED. 

These engagements were prompted by growing tensions surrounding recent changes to the school's uniform policy.

A rift had emerged between the governing body of Fraaisig Primary School, its teachers, parents, and local school uniform suppliers following disagreements over the implementation of revised uniform arrangements. 

The dispute has raised broader questions about fairness, transparency and compliance with WCED and national regulations governing school uniform procurement.

Regulations on uniform suppliers
The guidelines on school uniforms, issued by the national Department of Basic Education, discourage the appointment of a single or exclusive uniform supplier and encourage schools to allow multiple suppliers where possible.

This position is supported by guidance from the Competition Commission, which has cautioned that exclusive supply arrangements may unfairly limit competition and disadvantage parents and small local businesses. 

School's position on uniform changes

According to the SGB of Fraaisig, a decision was taken in 2024 to introduce a school dress as part of the official uniform in 2025. 

All potential suppliers were invited to submit samples for consideration. Only one additional supplier responded, and those samples were approved. The school confirmed that no changes were made to the boys' uniform.

This year, without approval by the SGB, two community members reportedly began producing and selling school dresses and other uniform items. The school maintains that these individuals are therefore operating as unauthorised suppliers. 

It is further alleged that one individual made negative and unsubstantiated statements about the school and its existing supplier on social media.

The school invited the two seamstresses in question, both from Hornlee, to attend a meeting to address the matter constructively. A meeting was held at the school last Wednesday, 4 February.

Inclusion of local suppliers
The SGB has stated that it remains open to involving additional local suppliers, provided that products meet required standards for quality, sizing and durability. 

However, it has expressed concern that the promotion of unapproved uniform items undermines established procurement processes.

Lynn Kayster, one of the seamstresses concerned, welcomed the intervention and the inclusion of her services, as well as those of the other local seamstress. She said the move would help prevent divisions within the community and encourage residents to support one another locally.

Oversight, conflict of interest and recourse
Where a supplier is also employed by the state, regulations require permission to perform remunerative work outside official duties. 

Parents and suppliers who believe the process has been unfair may lodge a formal complaint with the SGB, escalate the matter to the WCED district office, and, if necessary, to head office.

The WCED continues to play a mediating role to ensure policy compliance and protect the best interests of learners.

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