KZN MEC for Education Mr Siphosihle Hlomuka will be conducting an oversight visit at Dr Joseph Shabalala Secondary School in Ladysmith, KZN, today (September 3) following a disturbing viral video showing a teacher physically abusing a group of learners.

The video, which has gone viral, shows the teacher slapping three pupils on the head at the front of the class.

It appears to have been secretly filmed by a learner in the classroom.

In a statement released to the media, the MEC has condemned this violent act, as it goes against the established protocols for administering discipline in schools.

He stressed that corporal punishment – which includes any act of punishing or disciplining a learner that causes the learner any physical pain or injury and, in some instances, psychological harm – is prohibited by law.

As a signatory to the United Nations ‘Convention on the Rights of the Child’, South Africa has adopted laws on negligent treatment or exploitation so as to protect children from all forms of physical and mental violence, injury, abuse and neglect.

The MEC’s visit will include a meeting with the school management team, members of the SGB, as well as teachers and learners.

Read update here: Education MEC slams corporal punishment at Ladysmith school

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