Learner suspended at St. Albans College after racism allegations
The Department of Education confirmed that it is aware of the matter and has launched an investigation into the allegations.
The Department of Education has launched an investigation into allegations of racism at St Albans College, following a peaceful protest by EFF activists on Thursday.
According to EFF Subregion 5 spokesperson Bongani Ramontja, a group of black learners was allegedly bullied and manhandled by a white learner.
“One of the victims reported the matter to his parents, who then informed us.
“The victim stated that the perpetrator threw racial comments at him and manhandled him,” Ramontja said.
Ramontja added that there are witnesses and footage of the perpetrator manhandling the victim.
He said the victim is currently receiving therapy due to the trauma caused by the bullying.
On Thursday, EFF activists met with the school’s management, who informed them that the perpetrator had been dismissed pending internal investigations.
“We have come to an agreement with them to elect the person who will be doing investigations on our own,” he said.
“The school has also promised to pay for the victim’s counselling fees.”
Education spokesperson Steve Mabona confirmed that the department is aware of the allegations and has dispatched a team to conduct an investigation.
“The alleged perpetrator has been suspended by the school pending the investigation, which is expected to be completed within seven days,” Mabona said.
He also confirmed that this is not the first racism incident reported at the school.
He said in 2021, an educator was dismissed following a racism allegation.
“The school has a programme called the Being and Belonging Programme, which aims to foster transformation and cultivate diversity,” Mabona said.
He emphasised that the department takes incidents of racism seriously and guides schools on policies and programmes for intervention.
“We always emphasise human rights, transformation and respect for the Constitution in our schools.
“All newly registered schools are inducted, and transformational principles are emphasised,” Mabona said.
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