ANOTHER episode of violence has befallen Centenary Secondary school in Asherville. A 15-year-old learner is recovering after he was allegedly assaulted and stabbed by two schoolmates inside a classroom on Friday. This is reportedly a second stabbing incident this year.

The SAPS have confirmed the incident. Captain Carmen Rhynes of eThekwini District Communication said, “It is alleged this morning (Friday) at approximately 9:30 the complainant, a 15-year-old learner, was at school on his way to class when he had an argument with another learner. When at his class, he was confronted by the accused and his friend who then physically punched and kicked him. One of the learners then pulled out a scissors and stabbed him on the left side of his head above his ear. A case of assault and grievous bodily harm was opened and is being investigated by Sydenham SAPS detectives. The two 16-year-old learners were arrested and released into their parents’ custody.”

Also read: Teen recalls traumatic gun-pointing incident at hands of police

Kim Andre, one of the founders and representatives of Centenary Secondary Concerned Parents Association (CSCPA), condemned the incident.
“The recent stabbing incident at Centenary Secondary School has left our children traumatised and feeling unsafe. It’s alarming that perpetrators of such violent crimes are not held accountable with adequate consequences. A mere suspension is insufficient; we demand stricter measures to ensure justice is served. Let’s be clear: this is not a racial issue, but a criminality issue that requires a firm response to protect our children’s well-being and safety whilst they are in the school environment,” Andre said.

Ward 31 councillor Remona Mckenzie acknowledged that this was a very serious offence. “This is becoming increasingly challenging with the latest incidents that have occurred in the school. We need to adopt and implement an anti-bullying policy to stop the increasing cases of bullying, which lead to suicide and loss of life. There is a need for urgent action from SGBs, learners, parents, departments, schools, civil society, and communities.”

She added, “I have seen several incidents where social media is also used to add fuel to the existing fire with messages of hate broadcast across to others to make their point. Violence has claimed so many lives in our society, which has become increasingly worrisome, and needs to stop.”

Mckenzie concluded, “At our CPF meeting this was discussed, and concerns around these incidents were discussed. A youth help desk has been established through CPF and Sydenham SAPS intervention. There will be programmes set up, and we will be visiting schools. Resolutions were taken in a meeting that was held at the school and I am following up on this with the Department of Education.”

Also read: Councillor calls for safety at schools, campuses to be addressed

She urged the school to work with her as the ward councillor, and the concerned residents who live in the area.

The president of the 1860NIC Congress, Thanasagren Rubbanathan Moodley, aka Karou Charou, believes that the Department of Education officials are failing their learners dismally.
“The department should be liable for what is going on in our schools. They are well aware of the issues at this school and other schools, but are not addressing it, and have no tangible solutions. I have written to the KZN DOE HOD, but they never bothered to respond. Three weeks ago I wrote to the Minister of Basic Education, highlighting the issues at hand, to date no response.

“One of my suggestions, to curb school bullying, is to allow those learners who have complained of bullying, to have their mobile phones on them. If the perpetrators are aware that the abuse could be recorded, it could be a major deterrent. But sadly, the KZN DOE does not want to engage with concerned parents and stakeholders.”

Both the school principal and the KZN Department of Education have not responded to enquiries.
The accused will appear in Durban Court on April 4.

For more from Berea Mail, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.