GDE identifies gangsterism, ill discipline at TM Letlhake

Over-aged learners at TM Letlhake Secondary School in Simunye have been identified as perpetrators of gangsterism and ill discipline at the school.

This is according to Gauteng Education Department (GDE) spokesperson Steven Mabona who said the information is detailed in a report compiled by the school, following the chaos at the school.

Also read: School stabbing: Suspects now in guardians’ care

He was responding to the Herald’s questions regarding allegations of violence at the school, as well as the lack of teaching by educators.

The allegations come against the backdrop of a recent incident where three learners stabbed four others during a fight, which led to their arrest.
Charges against one of the learners were dropped, while charges of assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm against the two other learners remain and are hanging over their heads.

The report at our disposal reveals that most over-aged learners are identified as perpetrators of gangsterism and ill discipline at the school. However, the Department has a programme in place to assist and deal with over-aged learners.

“The three boys implicated in the stabbing incident are still on suspension and they will not be back at school until their hearings are concluded,” said Mabona.

Approximately 50 other learners were also suspended in the wake of the incident.

Also read: Police intervene as tensions rise at TM Letlhake after stabbing incident

“We can confirm that not all identified learners have returned to the school as some are currently attending disciplinary hearings, and outcomes will be made available once the hearings are completed. However, the female learners implicated in gangsterism were given verbal warnings and placed under the supervision of their parents or guardians. They are back at school,” said Mabona.

He added that it was worrying that a large number of learners are still home on suspension due to the unavailability of their parents or guardians. Tackling the issue of no teaching at the school, Mabona stated that educators were living in fear but have since returned to their classrooms.

Educators were afraid of returning to classes due to the trauma that was suffered. Consequently, they have been advised to undergo debriefing sessions with the Employee Health and Wellness Programme (EHWP) and have since returned to school,” said Mabona.

Also read: GDE confirms stabbing at local high school: 50 learners suspended

Also read: School fight almost costs lives: Three learners arrested, four injured