SOME Dlangezwa High School educators are up in arms after closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras were installed in their classrooms.
Teachers have questioned motives behind the surveillance, saying they are an ‘unnecessary invasion’ and a ‘spying tactic’ by the principal.
Speaking to the Zululand Observer this week, enraged educators said they have reported the matter to their unions.
‘We hope this will be resolved soon because we can’t work like this. These cameras are being used negatively and not to benefit anyone,’ said one teacher.
‘This can’t be right, we can’t be able to do our jobs if we are watched,’
However, according to the uThungulu District Department of Education Director David Chonco, no reports have been made to his office.
‘There is nothing wrong with installing cameras in classrooms.
‘We need to improve our security systems in schools to prevent illegal activities,’ he said.
With school property theft, vandalism and violence activities reported daily, Chonco said these cameras will assist with proper investigations.
‘Computers and other properties are constantly stolen from classrooms. We encourage schools to put extra measures for safety.
‘This is not just our decision: even the president has encouraged principals, parents and pupils to secure their learning institutions,’
‘There are many schools with cameras such as John Ross College, and they are not there to spy on teachers. This is just a necessary security measure,’
On another hand, Chonco said principals must explain to teachers the purpose of installing cameras.
