The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has revealed several actions to be implemented after MEC Panyaza Lesufi visited Hoërskool Jan Viljoen on Monday morning February 14.
Besides investigating racism claims, a staff member employed by the SGB accused of sexual harassment will be placed on precautionary suspension.
Read previous article here: Tensions high at Hoërskool Jan VIljoen
Acting GDE spokesperson Oupa Bodibe said the purpose of the MEC’s visit was to obtain a report from the school leadership on the incident that occurred at the school last Friday February 11.
The Herald reported last Friday that police were called after an altercation had broken out at the high school on Friday afternoon. Randfontein Police spokesperson Sergeant Carmen Hendricks confirmed to the Herald that the fight between two groups of learners had erupted on the school grounds at about 13:00.
Tensions have since mounted at the school as a result.
On Monday, February 14, Lesufi was joined by the MEC for Social Development, Morakane Mosupyoe; the West Rand District Mayor Councillor Hullet Hild; and the Rand West City Mayor Councillor Itani Glady Khoza.
“The MEC-led delegation met with different stakeholders including the SGB, the principal, the School Management Team, the police, the learners and the staff. The attendees received a briefing from the principal, the SGB and the police. Subsequently, the MEC met with learners, parents of the affected learners, the learners at the school and educators. MEC Lesufi also addressed the community that was gathered outside of the school.”
The following actions will be implemented:
1. Racism from any quarter is condemned and will be attacked.
2. The principal has collated evidence and has requested anyone with information to come forward with the information. This evidence will be given to the South Africa Human Rights Commission, the police and the SGB for further investigation.
3. The police will continue with the investigation of the four cases and submit it to the NPA for a decision.
4. The South African Human Rights Commission will be requested to investigate allegations of racism and other forms of discrimination.
5. The SGB must continue with disciplinary action against the perpetrators.
6. A staff member employed by the SGB accused of sexual harassment will be placed on precautionary suspension. Department of Social Development will take statements from any interest party.
7. The department will implement a programme of diversity management to assist the school as it goes through the crucible of transformation.
8. In-contact classes will be suspended until Tuesday 15 February. Lessons will be provided remotely through online and other means.
9. A parents meeting will be convened on Thursday.
“Racism and other forms of discrimination should be eliminated. The incident at the school reflects deep-seated racist attitudes in our schools and community. We must grasp this opportunity to ensure that the school is fully transformed and is a safe and welcoming space for all people regardless of their race, class or religion. We appeal to everyone to give this process and opportunity and not incite violence,” said MEC Lesufi.
Watch video of MEC Panyaza Lesufi speaking to the students here:
