More than 30 KwaZulu-Natal school principals were being investigated for the misappropriation of schools funds, education MEC Senzo Mchunu said on Thursday in a statement.

"Our observation is that many of our principals live above their means, thereby becoming susceptible to corrupt practices," Mchunu said.

He said the department would take drastic actions against principals who were found guilty of misusing funds.

"We would therefore like to urge school governing bodies to play a meaningful role in ensuring that school funds are protected at all cost.

"They need to establish strong finance committees that are going to ensure that all schools deal judiciously with school funds," Mchunu said.

He said the department would ensure that principals of schools get sufficient training in school management.