The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) strongly condemns the physical abuse perpetrated on a learner at Patriot High School in Mpumalanga. The Commission believes that in instances of provocation and verbal abuse from the learner, the educator as a role model should always act with circumspection.
In this regard the educator is expected to still show a respect for the law and dignity of his/her learners and not resorted to physical violence by pulling of the learner’s hair as it was depicted on e-news last night. As a secondary parent to the learner which is embraced in the doctrine of diligens paterfamilias, the educator should have at least tried other means of resolving the conflict by reporting the incident to the principal and the school management. As an organisation that endeavours to create a society free from gender oppression and inequality, the CGE condemns an form of violence and this incident is no exception.
It is also unfortunate that this incident has taken place during women’s month, during a period when the CGE and other agencies are not only celebrating our women and the girl child but also sensitising the nation on their responsibilities towards women and the girl child.
Accordingly, the Commission is disappointed that a learner was subjected to unnecessary violence by someone who was meant to protect her. Under the circumstances the Commission calls upon all stakeholders to allow due processes to take place without any interference. We also appeal to the Department of Basic education to observe its best practices during a thorough investigation of the matter which must culminate in appropriate remedial action as well as sanctions if necessary. There must be a strong and unequivocal signal conveyed by the Department of Basic Education that no abuse of learners will be tolerated. The CGE will be monitoring the matter to ensure that steps are taken to address the matter effectively.
Contact person:
Mr Javu Baloyi
Cel: 083 579 3306
