Recovered principal of Primose Primary returns months after he was shot

A traumatic incident in February at Primrose Primary School almost took the life of the school principal, Noko Selepe.

He was shot by a 13-year-old learner.

The incident left the community and parents fearing for the safety of the children.

After months of recovery, Selepe returned to the school at the beginning of the third quarter.

ALSO READ: Learner (13) allegedly shoots and injures Primrose school principal

This incident could have shattered Selepe’s spirit but made him even more determined and dedicated to ensuring such an incident never happens again.

“This was an isolated incident. Our school has never been known for bad behaviour.

“When this happened, it was a shock. But this was a learner, struggling with personal issues that had gone unnoticed, and he decided to act on it. Furthermore, he did not act alone; it seems he had training,” said Selepe.

The principal said he had forgiven the learner, looking at how the events unfolded.

ALSO READ: Watch: Parent’s gun allegedly used to shoot Primrose principal

“The learner did not act alone; someone guided him, and why we don’t know. But, I am saddened by his action and what this could mean for his future,” expressed Selepe.

He said one thing he is grateful for is that he is alive. “The wound was a clean one. It was an entry and exit wound, which I am grateful for because it caused no internal damage. It gave my family a scare,” said Selepe.

He expressed his gratitude to the department for the support of his family during this difficult time.

“It has been a traumatic experience for my children as they thought they could lose me, but with the support and counselling, we are recovering as a family and looking into the future,” said Selepe.

Germiston City News asked the principal if he was afraid to return to the school.

“I was not scared because this was the first time this happened, and it was unique.

“When I came to the school, I had set goals of what I would love to achieve for the school, and I am not done. I came back because of my love for the school and the children,” shared the principal.

ALSO READ: Education MEC meets with Primrose Primary management and parents after principal is shot, injured

“The love and support from the staff and children when I returned confirmed this is where I belong. The love was overwhelming, and I am humbled by that,” said Selepe.

Despite the traumatic experience, his commitment to his students and staff remained unwavering.

He believes his presence was crucial in helping the school to heal and move forward.

He expressed concerns about safety in school and said the incident has taught him not to be oblivious to the issue.

“Primrose Primary is still a safe place for children. As a school, we continue collaborating with local law enforcement and investigate enhanced security measures,” explained Selepe.

He also said they don’t want to treat the children like criminals.

“These are still little children, and we need to treat them and look at them as such.

“We are taking every step to ensure the safety and well-being of our students and staff. This school is a place of learning, growth, and love. Together, we will keep it that way.

“We are also going to be vigilant of bad behaviour so that we address it on time before it gets out of hand,” said Selepe.