Cape Town — The Department of Education in Limpopo is currently investigating an incident at Bela Bela High School after two teachers were assaulted by learners.
A video that was shared on X, shows teachers trying to defend themselves against learners who were backing their peers involved in assaulting them (teachers).
Chaos ensued as the situation escalated, with the learners becoming more aggressive when the teachers attempted to stand up for themselves.
According to The Citizen, the confrontation began when two pupils, who arrived late to school, were denied entry to the grounds. The pupils then scaled the fence and incited their classmates to join them in attacking the teachers.
Limpopo Department of Education spokesperson, Matome Taueatsoala said an internal investigation was underway.
“Departmental officials are working to establish measures for decisive action against the pupils’ irresponsible behaviour. In light of this incident, it’s crucial to reflect on the importance of maintaining discipline,” Taueatsoala said.
WATCH BELOW:
Learners from Bela Bela fighting against their teachers, where did we go wrong as parents 💔 pic.twitter.com/VgVGLzCvub
— #NativeOfBelaBela (@tsheko2020) October 17, 2024
The National Association of School Governing Bodies’ General Secretary, Matakanye Matakanye, condemned the pupils’ behaviour and said that SGBs should reinforce the code of conduct policies.
He also called for greater support from the department to address the issue effectively.
As reported by the Daily Sun, the South African Democratic Teacher’s Union (SADTU) Limpopo secretary, Sowell Tjebane, said teachers felt vulnerable as there was nothing they could do.
“We have always condemned these kinds of acts. School safety must also involve the safety of teachers, but in most cases, it involves pupils only,” the report quoted Tjebane as saying.
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Picture: X/@KekanaLepogo
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Compiled by Matthew Petersen
