Siviwe Gwarube, Minister of Basic Education, says there’s no place for violence and bullying in schools.
She was responding to an incident at Milnerton High School, where a Grade 10 learner was attacked by a group of boys.
The incident reportedly occurred last week shortly after school hours, and a video surfaced on social media a few days later. It shows the 16-year-old learner being both physically and verbally assaulted.
Criminal charges welcomed
“I welcome the fact that criminal charges have been laid in this matter. This sends an important message across our education sector and society at large: when conduct of this nature occurs, it warrants full accountability under the law.”
Gwarube further says her office has been in regular contact with the Western Cape Provincial Minister for Education, David Maynier, to stay up to date with the progress of the matter.
“It is now essential that both the disciplinary and criminal processes proceed swiftly, transparently and fairly, ensuring that those responsible are held to account, the rights of all learners involved are respected, and that the safety and well-being of every learner remain our top priorities.”
Exams at alternative venue
The eight learners involved in the incident appeared in the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court on assault charges on Thursday.
National Prosecution Authority spokesperson, Eric Ntabazilila, said six of the accused are facing eight charges of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. The other two suspects appeared separately as they are juveniles.
The court set bail at R2000 for each of the accused, which the state did not oppose, said Ntabazilila.
As part of their bail conditions, they must not contact the complainants and witnesses. They are prohibited from entering the school premises and must hand over their mobile phones and their PINs.
The case has been postponed until 20 January to allow the accused to write exams. They will be allowed to write at an alternative venue arranged by the WCED, according to the Metro North District office.
Even though only two are minors, the court ordered that the identity of the accused may not be published.
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