Katlego Sekhu
Another Grade 12 student from Pretoria High School for Girls has been suspended due to allegations of racism. The suspension was officially announced by the Gauteng Department of Education on Wednesday, following the circulation of a video on social media showing the student making racially charged statements.
This incident comes on the heels of the suspension of the school’s principal. The situation has sparked discussions about racism in schools, prompting the question: “How can we effectively address and prevent racism in the school environment? Should anti-racism education be incorporated into the school curriculum?”
Gauteng Education, Sport, Arts, Culture & Recreation MEC, Mr Matome Chiloane, visited Pretoria High School for Girls on Tuesday, 30 July 2024, and interacted with the SGB and SMT regarding a recent incident where 12 learners were suspended for allegations of suspected racism.
During this engagement, the MEC confirmed the precautionary suspension of the principal for 90 days pending an investigation into allegations that complaints reported by learners to the principal were ignored.
Additionally, the district announced the appointment of an acting principal, who is one of the school’s deputy principals, to serve in this position until the investigation is completed.
The SGB will continue their disciplinary process today and tomorrow, and their report will be shared with the Department upon completion. There was an emphasis on supporting all affected learners during the examination period.
With the assistance of Matthew Goniwe School of Leadership and Governance, the Department will be conducting a diversity and social cohesion programme, which will be regularly monitored to ensure its efficacy.
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