Thabo Bodibe
The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has condemned allegations of racism at Pretoria Girls High following the suspension of 12 learners for alleged racist connotations.
On Thursday, 18 July 2024, the school informed the Tshwane South District about a planned protest by a group of learners scheduled for Friday, 19 July 2024. The protest was in response to alleged racism at the school, with dissatisfaction among African learners.
The grievances included a WhatsApp group consisting only of white learners, repeated instances of racism, non-responsiveness by the principal, unaddressed bullying incidents, and preferential treatment of white learners.
Additional allegations include the selective application of the school code of conduct, with harsher treatment for black learners compared to white learners.
The Tshwane South District has launched an urgent investigation towards the allegations levelled against the school and its employees.
The School Governing Body (SGB) has accepted all the learners implicated, and disciplinary hearings are scheduled from 30 to 31 July 2024.
“A school environment where racism and discrimination are prevalent compromises the right to education and the safety of all learners.
“Action must be taken against any conduct that threatens order and discipline at institutions of learning, particularly conduct which undermines the dignity of learners,” said MEC Matome Chiloane.
The department says it will continue to monitor developments closely at the school.
SOURCED FROM THE GPG WEBSITE.
