By: Bianca “BB” Binase
The North West Department of Education has strongly condemned the ill-discipline displayed by Hoër Tegniese Skool in Klerksdorp learners earlier this week.
It is alleged that on Tuesday, 19 August, a group of learners entered the school restrooms and dressed in overalls and balaclavas, disrupting the teaching and learning environment at the school. A teacher promptly responded by going to the restroom area to encourage the learners to return to class. During this interaction, the incident escalated to a situation wherein learners poured water onto the teacher. The learners continued by throwing papers at the teacher.
The school staff responded promptly and effectively to the situation, prioritising learners’ safety by securing the premises and removing the individuals involved.
The school management finally succeeded in bringing order and sanity to the school, and eventually, normal academic activities resumed.
An immediate investigation was initiated, and the learners involved were identified. Their parents were promptly informed of the incident.
On Wednesday, 20 August the School Management Team (SMT) convened an urgent meeting. Following the instructions of the School Governing Body (SGB), it was resolved that all involved learners would be suspended for five (5) school days.
North West Education MEC, Viola Motsumi said the suspension was an interim measure pending the outcome of a formal disciplinary process as per the school’s code of conduct. “The parents of the learners were invited to an official meeting, during which they were informed of the decision to suspend.” “The suspension was implemented to ensure the safety and well-being of all learners and staff.
The MEC condemned the ill-discipline caused by the learners.
“This behaviour displayed by these learners is extremely barbaric and is unacceptable. We are not going to tolerate learners who assault our teachers, they do not belong in our schools.
“I am going to instruct the School Governing Body of this school to take drastic steps against these learners. The steps taken by the school should send a message to other learners to never attempt such horrible behaviour. I have instructed the district to arrange teachers and learners who have been affected by this incident”, said Motsumi.
Motsumi further expressed her appreciation to the School Governing Body, the Department of Education staff, teachers, parents, and the broader community for their continued support in upholding these values.
Motsumi said her department remained committed to “fostering an environment where discipline and safety are paramount”.
“The disciplinary process will continue according to departmental policies and the school’s code of conduct.”
