SEDIBENG. – The National Association of School Governing Bodies (NASGB) in the Sedibeng District has condemned the alleged assault of a Grade 1 pupil at Mojala-Thuto Primary School in Evaton.

Speaking to Ster North, Secretary Thabiso Radebe said they were shocked to hear about the incident that allegedly happened in full view of other young pupils in class at the time.

“The disciplinary hearing of the female educator that has caused a head injury to a Grade 1 boy with a scissor is delayed.”

Radebe called on all stakeholders to assume the duty of protecting young children, stating that the community is already faced with the scourge of violence.

“We must protect children from growing up in such an environment.”

According to Radebe parents send their children to school because they believe it is a safe environment. He encouraged department officials, educators, and SGB members to speak out against violence inflicted on vulnerable groups like children.

“The Department of Education has a legal duty and obligation to reinforce the highest form of professional conduct from its employees. This includes teachers and staff.”

Radebe said because they have been entrusted with the safety of children teachers have a moral duty to act responsibly as loco parentis for the learners during school hours.

“The NASGB calls upon the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) to act against any violation of the learner’s rights. If it were the teacher whose rights had been violated, the association would still demand an appropriate action. This is one case too many. Mojala-Thuto must never condone such unprofessional behaviour. We demand the district office to expedite its internal hearing because we expect a full report soon.”

The NASGB said the parents’ efforts to get answers are being delayed because the (GDE) official is giving her contradicting reasons. The NASGB pleads with the department to give the mother answers so that she can get the closure she needs.