MEC Hlomuka condemns alleged corporal punishment at Gasa High School
The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Emmanuel Hlomuka, has strongly condemned the alleged incident of corporal punishment at Gasa High School in Danny Dalton, under the Zululand District where the school principal is reported to have assaulted a learner, leaving visible bleeding wounds on the learner’s body.
MEC Hlomuka has described the allegations as deeply concerning and completely unacceptable, emphasising that schools must remain safe environments where learners are protected from harm and treated with dignity and respect.
“There is absolutely no justification for the use of corporal punishment in our schools. It is prohibited by law, and no educator or school principal has the right to inflict physical harm on a learner under the name of discipline. Such conduct, if confirmed, is a serious violation of the learner’s rights and cannot be tolerated,” said MEC Hlomuka.
The MEC has directed the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education to commence an immediate investigation into the incident. Appropriate action will be taken in accordance with the findings of the investigation and applicable disciplinary procedures.
The Department will also ensure that the affected learner receives the necessary medical attention and psychological support to address the physical and emotional impact of the alleged incident.
“Our responsibility is to protect learners and create school environments in which they feel safe, respected and supported. We will not turn a blind eye to allegations of abuse against children. The investigation must establish the facts, and where wrongdoing is confirmed, appropriate consequences must follow,” said MEC Hlomuka.
Media enquiries:
Ms Nonkululeko Ngcobo
(A)Head of Communications
Cell: +27 82 042 0742
Mr Mlu Mtshali
Media Liaison Officer
Cell: +27 82 088 5060
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education urges all school communities to report incidents of corporal punishment and any form of abuse through the appropriate departmental channels to ensure that learners’ rights and safety are protected.
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