A Pretoria based Christian school is facing scrutiny after allegations that pupils were required to create social media content to “work off” their school fees.
The controversy centres on Christian Progressive College, where pupils reportedly filmed singing and dancing videos for platforms such as TikTok and YouTube. Some of the clips shared online have attracted hundreds of thousands and, in some cases, millions of views.
The issue gained traction after social media influencer Siya Mangena posted a video raising concerns about a contract linked to the school’s arts programme.
According to a document obtained by media, parents whose children received bursaries allegedly had to sign an agreement granting the school extensive control over the pupils’ artistic work for at least five years. The contract reportedly allowed the school to manage performances and recordings while recouping education and accommodation costs from the child’s earnings, with as much as 90% of revenue going toward repaying the bursary.
Questions have also emerged about who drafted the agreement. While the contract exists, no individual or department has taken responsibility for it. The school has reportedly distanced itself from the document, suggesting it may have been created by a staff member without authorisation.
Claims that the school was not registered appear to be incorrect. Sources from the Gauteng Department of Education confirmed that the institution is registered under the name Christian Progressive.
School principal Zwelethu Ndhlovu declined to comment directly on the matter, referring questions to the provincial education department.
The school has built a large social media following, with nearly three million followers on TikTok. It also operates an entertainment division known as CPC Stars, which manages pupils who participate in music and dance content creation. At least 21 children have reportedly been part of this programme.
Legal experts who reviewed the agreement raised concerns about its structure. Attorney Paul Roelofse noted that while the document is framed as a bursary agreement, it also resembles a long term commercial contract governing a minor’s artistic work. He warned that the arrangement could place vulnerable families at risk if educational opportunities are tied to extensive commercial obligations.
Another legal professional, Uzukhanye “Uzu” Myoywana, said the agreement appeared similar to a record label contract due to its exclusivity terms and centralised control over bookings. He cautioned that South African law provides strong protections for minors entering contracts, particularly those linked to artistic work.
Teachers’ union Naptosa also expressed concern after reviewing the document. Executive director Basil Manuel said the agreement could unfairly bind children to long term obligations even after they reach adulthood.
The Gauteng Department of Education confirmed that an inquiry into the matter is under way. Spokesperson Steve Mabona said authorities would act if the investigation finds that the rights of learners were violated or if regulations governing schools were breached.
Despite the controversy, operations at the school appeared to continue as normal during a recent visit, with classes ongoing and pupils present on campus.
Representatives from the CPC Stars programme have denied allegations of exploitation, maintaining that the entertainment activities take place outside school hours and that parents voluntarily sign the agreements.
The provincial education department said its investigation is continuing and that appropriate action will be taken if any wrongdoing is confirmed.
Facebook Comments