Human Rights Commission and education department launch investigations following alleged racism at east of Pretoria school

The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) and the Gauteng Education Department (GDE) have both launched investigations following an incident of alleged racism at a school in the east of Pretoria.

The investigations come after two learners allegedly used a racial slur to insult a 14-year-old at Hoërskool Die Wilgers last month.

The two boys are accused of calling the girl a k****, which prompted her father to lodge a complaint with the SAHRC, according to SAHRC provincial manager Zamantungwa Mbeki.

“We have registered the case and investigations are ongoing.”

Mbeki said the commission briefly met with the school and another meeting is coming soon to discuss the way forward between the school, GDE and the parents of the affected learner.

“We stand as an independent body throughout this investigation and after a conclusion is made we will meet and recommend steps to be taken.”

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Die Wilgers Hoërskool SGB Chairperson Raymond Saayman said the SGB and the school are aware of the incident involving a Grade 8 learner.

“This incident has shocked us as it is not typical of the behaviour displayed by our learners. We strongly condemn any form of racism and have acted swiftly and decisively in reporting the matter and ensuring that the disciplinary process proceeds without delay.”

Saayman said the principal, Ilza Louw, took immediate action by reporting the case to the relevant stakeholders of the GDE, the school and the SGB.

“An investigation was promptly launched and we are dealing with the matter in accordance with the prescribed guidelines and regulations of the GDE,” he said.

Saayman said due to the sensitivity of the matter and the involvement of minors, “we are unfortunately unable to provide specific details about the disciplinary proceedings or the outcomes.

“However, we can assure you that the disciplinary process is being followed rigorously, and appropriate actions will be taken.”

He said throughout this period, the school has been in constant communication with the parents, offering support and checking on the learner’s well-being.

“Such behaviour is not representative of our school community, and we are fully committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for all our learners.”

He added that the school and SGB are dedicated to addressing and eradicating any forms of discriminatory behaviour.

GDE spokesperson Steve Mabona said the department is regrettably aware of the matter and views it in a very serious light.

“Accordingly, necessary disciplinary processes were instituted against the implicated learner, whereby the recommended sanction awaits the approval of the Head of Department. The outcome will be communicated to all affected parties in due course.”

He said it must be noted that psychosocial support was offered to the victim, however, the parents refused and opted to use private services, for which the school assisted with payment.

He said the department strongly condemns any act of misconduct.

“Learner ill-discipline will not be tolerated in our schools. The department continues to appeal to parents in assisting to enforce discipline in and outside the school environment,” Mabona concluded.

According to the 14-year-old’s father, this incident has left his daughter traumatised and resenting going to school.

He said his daughter was treated for trauma due to the alleged bullying and hospitalised for 21 days.

“As a parent, I am profoundly disturbed by this incident and the potential long-term psychological impact it may have on my daughter. This racial slur is not only an attack on her dignity but also a violation of her fundamental human rights. The use of such language is completely unacceptable and must be addressed with the utmost urgency and seriousness.”

He said it is crucial that the school implements strict measures to foster an environment of respect, tolerance, and equality for all students.

“I have opened a criminal case because this is a total degradation.”

Police spokesperson Warrant-Officer Johan van Dyk said the Silverton police are investigating a case of crimen injuria.
Crimen injuria is wilful injury to someone’s dignity, caused by the use of obscene or racially offensive language or gestures.

“The case is still ongoing and more details will be provided after the probe,” Van Dyk said.

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