The Khayelitsha Education Forum (KEF) has lambasted the alleged actions of teachers accused of beating learners at Luhlaza High School in Khayelitsha, saying those responsible should face the full might of the law.
The remarks come after learners from Luhlaza allegedly posted pictures on social media showing bruises on their hands, claiming they had been beaten on Thursday 22 May.
KEF condemns alleged corporal punishment at Luhlaza High School
KEF executive member Zinzi Dyantyi said she was not aware of the incident but vowed to follow up on the matter to establish the root cause of the alleged corporal punishment.
“According to my understanding corporal punishment was prohibited in schools a long time ago. Teachers have no right to beat learners. This is a serious matter that needs to be investigated.”
WCED responds to corporal punishment allegations in Khayelitsha
Western Cape Education Department (WCED) spokesperson Bronagh Hammond said the district is engaging with the school to verify the claims, provide support and take further action if required.
She said the alleged assaults had never been reported to the school or district by the learners concerned or their parents.
“The school first became aware of the allegations through social media. If learners come forward, the relevant support will be provided. WCED takes all allegations of assault against learners extremely seriously. Corporal punishment is illegal and strictly prohibited in all schools, and the department has a zero-tolerance approach to any form of physical or emotional abuse of learners.”
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Hammond added that all educators and school staff are required to report any incident of corporal punishment or assault to the WCED.
She said educators receive training on the department’s “Abuse No More” protocol, which clearly outlines reporting obligations, investigation procedures, and the consequences of misconduct.
How the WCED investigates assault allegations in schools
“Any allegation is formally investigated and, where appropriate, disciplinary action is taken.”
To raise awareness the WCED:
• Conducts regular training and induction sessions at school, district, and head office level;
• Hosts roadshows with district officials and principals;
• Works with educator unions through task teams to develop intervention strategies;
• Implements and regularly reviews the Abuse No More Protocol; and
• Has published guidelines on managing discipline in schools.
Hammond said the protocol defines corporal punishment as “[a]ny deliberate act against a child that inflicts pain or physical discomfort used to punish or contain him/her, including physical force, deprivation of basic needs or forced physical activity.”
