Benedict and Hope responds to allegations of neglect
Issues of neglect by staff were highlighted and parents who spoke to BONUS called for intervention by the department to rectify the situation.
POLOKWANE – The Department of Basic Education’s District Director for Benedict and Hope Special School, Tinyiko Nkuzana says she will continue to monitor the performance management plan for the school, put in place to improve governance.
Nkunza was responding to questions in relation to an article in BONUS on 10 September, entitled ‘Treat our kids better’ which reported on the alleged unfair treatment of learners.
Read more: PSA calls on Education MEC to intervene at Benedict and Hope Centre Special School
The Public Servants Association said the situation at the school reflected little care by the Department of Education and was tantamount to discrimination against vulnerable learners. Issues of neglect by staff were highlighted and parents who spoke to BONUS called for intervention by the department to rectify the situation.
“Learners are not left unsupervised. Teachers at the school are always in their classes as per the timetable and the support staff come in per schedule and follow the roster as they have a night and day shift,” she said. On the issue of children being fed early and the quality of food given, Nkunza told BONUS that the school does not have a kitchen but said that learners are given food at times that are feasible.
A caretaker at the school, who wished to remain anonymous, told BONUS that the only learners who attend class are those from the boarding house and that there is a stationary school bus parked on the premises which is meant to collect learners on a daily basis.
Nkunza says these allegations are false as not all learners are at school due to Covid-19. “We are trying to adhere to social distancing protocol and the school agreed with parents on the model of attendance, given that there is a hostel.”
She further explained that the allegations of abuse against learners needs thorough investigation, which is being handled by the circuit office, but added that there has been no complaint lodged by parents so far.
“The procedure for complaints by parents is outlined very well as it is to the Principals, Circuit, District and Head office. There are currently no complaints whatsoever from one parent at the circuit office. It is therefore a matter for investigation and the PSA is urged to share information at their disposal,” she said.
The Department’s Spokesperson, Tidimalo Chuene, on Tuesday, confirmed that several engagements were held, including one with the School Governing Body and parents on 12 September where processes were put in place to address challenges identified at the school.
“Recommendations on improvement of infrastructure, staff recruitment and the performance management system, as well as concerns on vacant posts have been submitted to the Acting Head of Department. These are being considered for concrete feedback to the school community,” she said.
