Community members are holding a demonstration against racism, bullying, and discrimination outside Hoërskool Die Wilgers in Pretoria East on Monday.

According to reports, parents claim two white pupils allegedly called a Grade 8 pupil from the school the “K” word.

When the victim’s parents reported the incident to the principal, they claim she dismissed it, fearing “losing her job and the school’s sponsors.”

Community leader Felicia April allegedly told the media that no proof had been provided despite the school’s claims of disciplining the two students involved.

“They say the two boys were suspended for seven days and then returned to school, but the parents have not received the disciplinary hearing outcome. The school claims it’s confidential and cannot be shared with the parents.”

“We are unhappy that the victim had to be removed from school while the boys remain. Secondly, the principal repeatedly admitted to the parents that she mishandled the situation and suggested they remove their child. Why should the victim be the one to leave?”

Operation Lukisa Sgela programme founder Phakedi Tsiane said the victim was admitted to the hospital for two to three weeks due to stress and anxiety. When she returned to school, she was informed that she had failed.

She was expelled and her parents were forced to enroll her at another school.

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By 10:00 on Monday morning, a group of protesters had gathered in front of the school.

Tsiane said they were expecting more people in the next hour.

In June, Education Department spokesperson Steve Mabona said disciplinary proceedings were initiated against those implicated.

“The department is regrettably aware and views this matter 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 the department,” Mabona allegedly told the media.

Mabona said psychosocial support was offered to the victim, but the parents chose to use private services instead.

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