The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) is deeply concerned regarding a recent assault at a local school where a Grade Nine learner hit a Grade Eight learner on the premises.
As previously reported in City Times, a video that went viral at the school on June 11 showed the Grade Nine learner (*James) wearing civilian clothing (civies) and punching the Grade Eight learner (*Mike).
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According to Mike, a misunderstanding caused the falling out between the two.
The HOD of discipline at the school said he called James in for questioning, but made him wait in another office while he took the statement of the learner who was assaulted.
He said after an exam had ended James went home and changed into civies before returning to the school premises, where he assaulted Mike.
After taking statements from both learners, the HOD took a further four statements from witnesses.
“We do not condone this behaviour,” the HOD said.
GDE spokesperson Steve Mabona said the department condemns the alleged conduct at the school.
“We swiftly intervened and officials were dispatched to the school to establish facts around the allegation.
“Learners are reminded that schools are for education and, as such, learners must focus on being enriched with knowledge if they are to have successful futures.
“Ill-discipline will not assist learners to achieve any objectives in schools.”
Mabona confirmed that a disciplinary hearing will take place on July 16 after James serves his suspension period.
“Our psycho-social unit will also offer the necessary support and counselling to all affected by the incident at the school,” Mabona said.
“While the matter may be concluded as soon as the disciplinary hearing is finalised, remedial action may take longer depending on the programmes the children may be subjected to, such as a diversion programme for behaviour modification and counselling.”
Mabona reiterated that the GDE has a policy of zero tolerance to bullying or any form of misconduct.
“Anyone found to be transgressing this policy is dealt with in line with the South African Schools Act (SASA) code of conduct, which governs all schools,” he said.
“Schools are urged to enforce their codes of conduct to deal with bullying and other disciplinary matters.
“The department relentlessly appeals to parents to assist by enforcing discipline in and outside the school environment.
“We also urge our learners to refrain from any acts of misconduct in schools.”
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