Lesufi welcomes expulsion of learners at Norkem Park High School
He extended an apology to educators for the difficult working conditions under which they are working
THE MEC for education, Panyaza Lesufi, welcomed the decision by Norkem Park High School to expel two learners and suspend 10 others.
The two learners were expelled for possession and brandishing of weapons and the others suspended for engaging in violent behaviour.
The school governing body recommended the 10 learners be immediately suspended while investigations continue. They will appear before a disciplinary hearing once the investigation is concluded.
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In a statement issued on Friday, the department confirmed that learners at the school were involved in disputes about relationships. The incidents happened on Monday and Tuesday last week after school, outside the school premises.
Lesufi visited Norkem Park High School on Friday to verify the series of videos which surfaced on social media. The videos depict learners involved in violence.
The MEC met with school management and commended the school for taking swift action against the learners involved in the incident.
Lesufi has implored the educators and governing body to maintain discipline and ensure that education is not disrupted by unruly elements. Learners have been encouraged to report any ill-discipline they witness to the school management team.
He extended an apology to educators for the difficult working conditions under which they are working. He further committed to returning to the school for a parents’ meeting.
Lesufi feels strongly that the policy of expulsion must be reviewed. “Expelled learners must undergo a programme of rehabilitation before they are placed at another school,” he said.
“The department strongly condemns violence and disruption of education at our schools and will not hesitate to intervene on issues of ill-discipline and misconduct by learners or educators. The SAPS will regularly conduct random search and seizure operations until the situation improves. The department will also continue to monitor the situation.”
