Pretoria – Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga has warned that violence will not be tolerated in schools, whether it is perpetuated by teachers, learners or parents.
“Schools should remain a no-violence zone where educators and learners can feel safe and secure in order for teaching and learning to take place,” said Motshekga.
Responding to media reports showing a video of a learner behaving violently towards a teacher, an outraged Motshekga said the incident must be condemned in the strongest possible terms and the relevant punishment must be meted out.
“The student responsible, together with the other learners who were cheering him on, should all be disciplined accordingly. In the same light, teachers who perpetuate violence by using unconventional and illegal methods of discipline should be prosecuted and moved out of the schooling system.
“Provincial Education Departments must deal decisively with instances of violence and the law must be followed to the letter. There are a number of policies in place that form part of the South African Schools Act, which must be implemented at provincial level,” the minister said.
Motshekga also challenged parents and communities to come on board and take responsibility for instilling a sense of what is right and wrong in their children.
“Schools should not be the only place where children are taught morals, as this should begin at home.”
She encouraged schools to ask learners to take the school pledge launched earlier this year, which talks to the rights and responsibilities of school learners. She said they should also familiarise themselves with the Bill of Responsibilities for the Youth of South Africa, which encourages children and youth to take responsibility for their future. – SAnews.gov.za
