KARIEGA – A concerning video circulating on social media has prompted an investigation into alleged initiation practices involving learners at Muir College Boys’ High School, after footage emerged appearing to show learners in school attire involved in what viewers describe as a water-based initiation ritual on the Kariega school premises.
The video, which has generated concern, appears to depict one learner screaming for help while being repeatedly submerged in a swimming pool by fellow students while onlookers watch the proceedings. The incident has raised serious questions about supervision, student welfare, and the persistence of initiation culture at the institution, with concerned parents and members of the public calling for immediate action and accountability from school authorities.
Speaking to UD Express, the Muir College headmaster, Dave Francis, shared that the school became aware of the video circulating on social media on Wednesday, 4 March 2026.
“We take these allegations very seriously, as the safety and well-being of our learners are our top priorities,” he said. “The school enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy against any form of initiation or behaviour that undermines the dignity and safety of our learners.”
Condemning the matter, he said, “Such practices are explicitly prohibited by our Code of Conduct and the Department of Education regulations,” while assuring the public that a formal internal investigation into the incident was started as soon as they became aware of the incident.
“As this involves minors and is an ongoing disciplinary issue, we are unable to provide specific details about the learners’ identities or the actions being taken at this stage, in accordance with POPIA,” he stated.
“Please be assured that we are addressing the matter with the necessary urgency and will take the appropriate steps once our internal processes are complete,” concluded Francis.
The Department of Education spokesperson, Malibongwe Mtima added that the Department are aware of this incident.
“We have communicated to both the parents of the victim and the alleged perpetrators informing them that we are investigating the issue and surrounding circumstances,” he said. “We have also informed the alleged perpetrators and victim of this.”
Mtima concluded that upon resolving the matter, the Department will make their findings public.
