Learners attack teachers in class
As parents and teachers what can be done? Can we have these conversations and come up with ways in which these learners can be punished?
In recent years we have been exposed to the horror of the increasing number of learners attacking teachers in class both in the media and videos circulated on social media.
Without any shame, the learners are seen slapping or pushing the teachers around.
Some even throw things at them while the teachers seem helpless.
In one recent video a group of boys are seen taking turns attacking a teacher in class. The teacher is evidently defenceless while some learners can be heard laughing and cheering.
This came as a shock to many as people my age, and even older, hold teachers and nurses in high esteem whether in class or not.
These professionals should be treated with respect. We understand the role they play in the community in shaping learners’ future.
I don’t care if you are a world celebrated doctor or scientist but for you to get to that position you need a teacher. You need their support and motivation to go through 12 years of schooling.
Don’t get me wrong. I am not saying when I was still in school we were perfect learners who always followed the right path and never made it into the black book. Nope, nothing even close to that.
Yes, we used to bunk classes. Boys would smoke behind the school toilets and girls would shorten their school skirts to a look cooler than the others.
We did all that, but never in our wildest dreams attempted to attack a teacher. You knew this would come with a serious hiding by the teacher if the crime was unforgivable.
And when you thought that was enough punishment, your parents would be summoned to school and this too would lead to more hiding at home.
I know the department of education has banned corporal punishment in schools but which other forms of punishment can be applied to ensure that the learners keep in their lane, which in this case is learning.
I am really concerned about the state of our schools because it seems we are moving towards lawlessness. The learners are getting away with a lot because they know very well they wouldn’t be punished.
As parents and teachers what can be done?
Can we have these conversations and come up with ways in which these learners can be punished?
We cannot continue turning a blind eye. Before we know it our schools will turn into battlefields.
