Background
The Gauteng Education Department is closely monitoring the situation at Pretoria High School for Girls after 12 learners were suspended over allegations of racism. This is the third time since 2016 that the school has faced such allegations.
Allegations and Protests
The recent protests were reportedly triggered by racial connotations, microaggressions, and complaints about black pupils, which surfaced through a WhatsApp group. The disciplinary process for the suspended learners is scheduled for July 30th and 31st.
Parental Reactions
Two parents, Ayanda and Jane, expressed their disappointment and concern over the recurring issue of racism at the school. Ayanda was shocked and disappointed by the school’s executive response, while Jane highlighted the emotional impact on the girls, emphasizing that they expected to be treated equally in a democratic society.
Historical Context
This incident follows a similar one in 2016, which involved allegations related to the school’s code of conduct, particularly regarding hair regulations for black students. Despite hopes for change, the recent incident indicates ongoing issues.
Code of Conduct Issues
Parents have raised concerns about the implementation of the school’s code of conduct. Ayanda pointed out that the issue reported last year was ignored, with WhatsApp messages resurfacing this year, suggesting a lack of action based on the color of the students involved.
Expected Outcomes
Ayanda and Jane hope for proper sanctions against the students involved, including debadging from leadership positions and potential expulsion. They stressed the importance of the school following its code of conduct consistently.
Psychological Impact
The parents described the psychological toll on their daughters, highlighting the anxiety and stress caused by the incident. Ayanda shared a personal connection, explaining the historical impact of apartheid on her family and emphasizing the need for strong support structures for the affected students.
Gauteng Education Department’s Response
The department is actively monitoring the situation and investigating the allegations, aiming to address and resolve the issues promptly.
