By Theodorah Mawasha
BOLOBEDU-A 19-year-old learner from Magoletsa High School under the Greater Letaba Municipality has been assaulted by his teacher on Tuesday, April 06.
It is alleged that Maphutha Raseemela, a grade 11 learner missed a classroom exercise and the teacher assaulted him as a result. It was mentioned that it was not his first-time offender. The furious parents and learners are calling for the teacher to be relieved of his duties.
The teacher known as Meneer Mokhabukhi called the learner to his office where he questioned why he didn’t submit his work and proceeded to lock the door of his office, slapped, and assaulted him.
“I had forgotten my school file and ran home to go get it. While I was gone, Meneer Mokhabukhi gave a classroom work that I failed to submit in time. Upon returning he called me to his office and that’s when he started attacking me.
When he saw I was defenseless he started punching me in the face and I became swollen. Afterward, when he realised the extent of my injuries he followed me outside and gave me R200.
I believe it was to silence me” reflected the distraught Maphutha.
It emerged during a meeting at school that Mokhabukhi has a tendency of exercising corporal punishment on his learners.
The school principal Andrew Hlokwe has reported the demands from parents
“I was reported on the matter and the SGB is investigating. I cannot comment on the matter further. The circuit will issue a statement.” He mentioned.
Meanwhile the victim’s mother, Mapula Raseemela said she is disappointed with the conduct of teachers at the school
“I am angry and disappointed. My child has not been able to go to school because of a teacher. Other kids are writing exams and he can’t write because he is still swollen and his eye is affected” She fumed.
According to the mother, they have opened a case against the teacher and hope swift action will be taken.
The Department of Education spokesperson Tidimalo Chuene has condemned the incident in the strongest of terms. “Due processes will be implemented in this matter and disciplinary action by the school principal will follow. We sympathize with the learner and everyone affected. Educators must not disregard codes of conduct. It’s sending a wrong message.” she concluded.
Section 10(1) of the South African Schools Act stipulates that “No person may administer corporal punishment at a school against a learner. Failing which that person will be found guilty of a criminal offense and if convicted receive a sentence of assault.”
