Principal, 22 teachers return to Umkhumbane High School
It was a jovial moment at Umkhumbane High School when the principal and teachers returned to school after months of gruelling absence.
AFTER months of turmoil, suspension of the school principal, and 22 teachers abandoning classes, the situation at Umkhumbane High School in Mayville has finally been resolved.
In March, the KZN Department of Education explained, “The decision to suspend the principal followed multiple instances of insubordination, including alleged refusal to allow a teacher to assume duties after reinstatement by the department.”
Umkhumbane High School is reportedly one of the province’s top-performing matric institutions.
Last year, CCTV cameras were installed in classrooms to prevent bullying, theft, and vandalism at the school. Later, some teachers boycotted classes, citing a lack of consultation.
The DOE has welcomed the restoration of stability, normality and teaching and learning at Umkhumbane High School following a period of disruption that adversely affected the school.
On Monday, the DOE, led by the HOD, Nkosinathi Ngcobo, witnessed the return of 22 educators and the school principal, Ntokozo Ngobese.
“The Department commends the School Governing Body, organised labour representatives, education stakeholders and the broader school community for demonstrating leadership, maturity and commitment in reaching an amicable resolution,” said Muzi Mahlambi, DOE spokesperson.
“We are encouraged by the spirit of co-operation displayed by all parties in resolving the challenges that confronted the school,” said Ngcobo.
MEC tackles internal disputes at Umkhumbane Secondary School
On behalf of the Provincial Government the MEC for Education, Sipho Hlomuka, said, “The department remains committed to supporting Umkhumbane High School as it embarks on a new chapter of unity, stability, and academic excellence. Every effort will now be directed towards recovering lost teaching time, strengthening learner support programmes, and ensuring that the school continues to fulfil its mandate of providing quality education to all learners.”
The atmosphere at the school was characterised by optimism, relief and renewed hope as learners enthusiastically welcomed back their teachers. Classrooms that had previously been affected by uncertainty were once again filled with the energy and excitement of learners eager to resume their academic activities.
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