Hoërskool Die Wilgers sets the record straight

Hoërskool Die Wilgers has set the record straight regarding the racial incident, affirming that all disciplinary actions were carried out in strict accordance with the proper guidelines.

Following the use of a racial slur by two learners, the situation has garnered significant attention, leading to demonstrations outside the school and widespread concerns about how the incident was handled.

In a statement by the School Governing Body (SGB), chairperson Raymond Saayman explained how the school addressed the situation.

“This incident involved the use of a racial slur by two learners in the presence of other learners. We fully recognize the seriousness of this situation and the impact that it has had on the affected individuals and the broader community.

“The school’s Code of Conduct for Learners does not allow discrimination of any kind, and we are committed to ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all students.”

He said the incident was formally reported on May 20, 2024.

“From that date, the school principal, Ilza Louw, acted swiftly and decisively. The two learners were removed from regular school activities and were only allowed to write their examination papers until the school closed for term 2.”

Saayman said the incident was immediately reported to the SGB and the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE), ensuring that all necessary procedures were strictly followed by the Department’s prescribed guidelines.

A thorough disciplinary process was conducted in accordance with the prescribed regulations of the GDE. As a result of this process:

• One of the learners was recommended for expulsion due to a prior history of misconduct. The decision was upheld by the Head of Department (HOD) of the Gauteng Department of Education, and the learner was expelled from Hoërskool Die Wilgers on July 31 2024.
• The second learner, a first-time offender, was found guilty of a Schedule 1 offence as outlined in General Notice 2591 of 2001 and received a further 7-day suspension when the schools reopened for term 3. The GDE was fully informed of this process and accepted the outcome, confirming it was in line with legislative guidelines.

“We acknowledge that these outcomes may not align with the expectations of those affected or members of the community. However, it is important to understand that these decisions were made in accordance with the prescribed regulations and policies set forth by the GDE, which the school and SGB are legally required to adhere to.

“Adhering to these procedures ensures that disciplinary actions are fair, consistent, and legally sound. In response to concerns about the well-being of the affected learner, the school, recognizing the unique circumstances of this case, worked closely with the family to offer support.”

Saayman said while the Gauteng Department of Education provided assistance options, the learner’s parents opted for alternative care, and the school chose to assist.

“We can also confirm that the learner was transferred to an alternative school at the specific request and insistence of the parents, facilitated by the Gauteng Department of Education.

“This decision was made with the learner’s educational and emotional well-being in mind. Our primary focus has always been and will continue to be the well-being and support of all our learners, ensuring that they receive the help they need, both emotionally and academically.”

Last month, a small group of community members held a demonstration against racism, bullying, and discrimination outside the school.

Also read: Anti-racism protest outside Hoërskool Die Wilgers

Community leader Felicia April allegedly told the media that no proof had been provided despite the school’s claims of disciplining the two students involved.

Operation Lukisa Sgela programme founder Phakedi Tsiane said the victim was admitted to the hospital for two to three weeks due to stress and anxiety. When she returned to school, she was informed that she had failed.  She was expelled and her parents were forced to enroll her at another school.

In June, Education Department spokesperson Steve Mabona said disciplinary proceedings were initiated against those implicated.

“The department is regrettably aware and views this matter in a very serious light. Accordingly, necessary disciplinary processes were instituted against the implicated learner, whereby the recommended sanction awaits the approval of the head of the department,” Mabona allegedly told the media.  

Mabona said psychosocial support was offered to the victim, but the parents chose to use private services instead.

“We understand the strong emotions and differing perceptions surrounding this incident. Our priority has always been, and will continue to be, the well-being of our learners. We will continue to work with all parties involved to address the underlying issues and promote a culture of mutual respect and understanding within our school community,” Saayman said.

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