Investigation launched after learner injured at Umzinto school

The KZN Department of Education has launched an investigation after corporal punishment allegations emerged against a teacher at a primary school in Umzinto.

According to sources, a learner suffered injuries to an eye after the teacher allegedly punched her.

In a statement, the KZN MEC of Education, Sipho Hlomuka, said the incident was reported on the Umzinto News Facebook page, and the department launched an investigation.

“We warn teachers that corporal punishment is a dismissible offence if found guilty,” said Hlomuka.

He added that the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act prohibits corporal punishment in South African schools, saying that the Act defines corporal punishment as any intentional act that causes pain or discomfort to a child.

It also includes non-physical forms of punishment that undermine a child’s dignity.

“The BELA Act prohibits corporal punishment in schools, including hostels, as well as initiation practices during school activities. The Act also proposes penalties for those who carry out corporal punishment. It also requires schools to develop codes of conduct that are sensitive to cultural beliefs and religious observances,” he said.

Hlomuka said the Act also allowed learners to request an exemption from complying with certain parts of the code of conduct.

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