DEAR Editor,-
The National Professional Teachers’ Organisation of SA (NAPTOSA) is deeply saddened by the untimely death of North West teacher Gadimang Daniel Mokolobate (24) at the hands of a pupil. This incident reminded teachers of the harsh, hostile conditions in which they are forced to work and they are concerned that not enough is being done by employers to ensure safety.
ALSO READ : Surge in sexual assault and violence has led to South Africa being dubbed ‘the rape capital of the world’
Violence against teachers is not new, but violence and pupils’ lack of discipline are under-reported. NAPTOSA argues that violence in schools is a reflection of the general South African society. When pupils see adults manhandling each other in places like parliament they think it’s the acceptable norm for resolving differences.
The organisation has been inundated with disturbing testimonials concerning levels of violence against teachers. The country has also witnessed a series of shocking videos of pupil violence towards teachers, which has resulted in some teachers leaving the profession. People in positions of authority within communities should intervene to safeguard the profession’s integrity.
Business Day recently highlighted violent situations in schools where pupils had verbally abused and assaulted teachers and other pupils. In Limpopo alone, the department was handling 942 cases of attacks on teachers.
Gauteng schools have expelled 151 pupils – 31 of these for assaulting teachers and other school staff.
It was disturbing to learn of so many cases of violence against teachers in a single year. Teachers report that their personal property is being vandalised on school property and when they try to instill discipline in the classroom, perpetrators often go unpunished. These incidents are indicative that the Department of Basic Education’s measures to deal with violence in schools is failing.
The department must employ stringent measures like working in collaboration with police, who must conduct regular searches for weapons and drugs and provide trained security personnel at schools to deter assaults on teachers.
While we acknowledge that violence in schools requires a multi-faceted approach, NAPTOSA is of the view that the department can do much more to protect employees. The department must further ensure teachers receive much-needed psychological help.
ALSO READ : Six young people killed in just two weeks
The department must accept current measures dealing with pupils who physically and psychologically assault teachers are not effective at all. Relocating abusive pupils to other schools merely shifts the problem and perpetuates the cycle of violence against teachers. It also puts other pupils at risk. Recalcitrant pupils should receive professional rehabilitation before being placed at another school.
NAPTOSA does not wish to see a situation where teachers refrain from instilling discipline for fear of being attacked by their own pupils. If the delinquent’s behaviour is left unaddressed, the consequences may be dire for delivery of quality education as teachers may leave in droves and it won’t be easy to replace them. The safety of teachers and pupils requires urgent attention from the department.
NKOSIPHENDULE NTANTALA
President
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram
For news straight to your phone, add us on WhatsApp 082 421 6033
