Independent racism probe at Pretoria High School for Girls despite SGB’s not guilty verdict
An independent investigation has been launched into Pretoria High School for Girls to examine the presence of a culture of racism.
The Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture & Recreation, Mr. Matome Chiloane, will initiate an independent investigation into Pretoria High School for Girls to examine the presence of a culture of racism.
This decision follows the School Governing Body’s (SGB) verdict, which found twelve Grade 12 learners not guilty of charges related to violence, bullying, and disruptive behavior due to insufficient evidence.
According to spokesperson Steve Mabona, this recourse, which the MEC has decided to pursue, will not investigate the 12 learners but rather allegations that racism exists at the school.
Also read: Twelve Pretoria High School learners found not guilty after racism allegations
“This decision is further motivated by the fact that the report of the SGB’s ruling makes no mention of racism or discrimination against learners, whereas there has been a strong presumption of the existence of such at the school.”
Mabona also added that they respect the decision of the SGB.
The twelve Grade 12 learners from the school were suspended for suspected racism and were subsequently found not guilty of all charges.
He said according to the report outlining the charges and ruling, the SGB found the implicated learners not guilty of the charges of violence and bullying, disruptive behaviour and violation of school rules due to insufficient evidence.
The charges against the learners included:
1. Violence and Bullying: Accusations of physical violence and bullying against other students.
2. Disruptive Behaviour: Engaging in actions that disrupt the educational environment.
3. Violation of School Rules: Breaching specific school regulations related to conduct and discipline.
“The report mentions a WhatsApp group whose discussions and exchanges were examined during the disciplinary hearing. These discussions were part of the evidence presented against the implicated learners.
“However, according to the SGB, the content from the WhatsApp group was found to be inconclusive and did not substantiate the charges of violence, bullying, or disruptive behaviour.”
Mabona said the SGB’s ruling further stated inconsistencies in the testimonies and lack of solid evidence from the WhatsApp group contributed to the decision of the SGB to find the learners not guilty.
“The GDE respects this outcome as the SGB’s authority is enshrined in the South African Schools Act, 1996. Therefore, the GDE cannot interfere with the outcome since SGBs are empowered by law to initiate and facilitate disciplinary hearings against learners.
“As such, any transgression of a school’s code of conduct by a learner is the responsibility of the SGB, to enforce appropriate action accordingly.”
Mabona said the GDE remains dedicated to ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all learners.
“In light of these developments, we call for all concerned stakeholders to allow the school to continue with learning and teaching in this critical time where examinations are being conducted,” said MEC Chiloane.
Also read: 12 Pretoria High School for Girls learners suspended amid racism allegations
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