GDE take disciplinary actions against teachers, school heads
MEC Chiloane releases findings of Khehlekile primary investigative report.
The investigation report into circumstances surrounding the death of Sibusiso Mbatha, a Grade Six boy learner from Khehlekile Primary School in Tokoza, found that the principal, deputy principal and two teachers have mishandled the matter.
This was revealed during Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane’s visit to the school to share the findings and recommendations of the report compiled by Rangata Attorneys on November 16.
Mbatha took his own life on October 23 amid allegations of bullying at school.
It is alleged that he was involved in a physical altercation with a fellow learner and that there were instances of comments made and negligence by educators during the aftermath of this altercation. One of these was an alleged comment made by an educator.
The report
The investigation revealed substantial evidence supporting allegations of emotional and homophobic abuse by the deputy principal towards Mbatha, contributing to his distress.
The investigation also noted that the school’s head of department and Mbatha’s class teacher might have mishandled the matter by disregarding proper reporting procedures that could have prevented the incident.
Additionally, both teachers and the principal were found to have failed in protocol adherence, with the deputy principal’s lack of communication, neglect of reporting procedures, and insensitivity towards the issue.
The confirmed allegations suggested that the learner’s public reprimand due to their sexual orientation significantly contributed to their distress, highlighting a lack of due process and insensitivity across multiple parties at the school.
It was determined that the principal might have failed in fulfilling his responsibilities by mishandling the issue, attempting to shield the deputy and relying solely on written statements from teachers and the head of the department.
He allegedly also neglected to inform the school governing body (SGB) about the situation and prioritised other community stakeholders over them. The SGB was deemed to have no role in this matter.
The severe trauma experienced by Mbatha’s family, friends, and classmates was acknowledged.
Considering the South African Schools Act’s provisions, specifically sections 60 (1) and (2), the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE), including the teachers, principal, and deputy principal, were found to have been liable for gross misconduct through acts of omission.
Recommendations
The recommendations emphasise disciplinary actions against specific individuals involved in mishandling the situation. It is recommended that the head of the department and class teacher, due to their alleged flawed handling and failure to follow reporting processes, be charged and undergo disciplinary hearings.
The deputy principal is recommended for precautionary suspension and subsequent disciplinary proceedings for alleged ill-treatment, blasphemy and homophobic abuse of the deceased.
It is also recommended that the principal must face charges for allegedly neglecting duties, possibly protecting the deputy, and prioritising other stakeholders over the SGB, along with the reliance solely on written statements.
The recommendations also stress the need for proactive measures. It suggests informing the SGB and school management team about such matters to ensure all stakeholders are aware of incidents and their impact on affected learners.
Training sessions specifically aimed at enhancing governance and scholar management skills for SGB and SMT members are also proposed.
Additionally, trauma counselling for Sibusiso’s family, friends, and classmates is strongly recommended to help them cope with the severe trauma.
The department must work with schools and SGBs to implement anti-bullying and homophobia policies, ensuring strict adherence to such policies on a daily basis.
“We appreciate the findings and recommendations by Rangata Attorneys and are committed to implementing them accordingly. Indeed, this should serve as a deterrent for all officials and stakeholders in our school communities. No one must feel that their rights are undermined, compromised or disrespected at our schools,” said Chiloane.
