Teachers who continue to hold a divergent agenda hinder the hope for this country to move towards a cohesive society and nation, writes Seth Mnguni.
It is unfortunate that racism continues to prevail in some of South Africa’s education institutions, especially at a time when the Department of Justice and Correctional Services is undertaking consultative efforts to conclude a draft national action plan to combat racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerances.
It is incontestable that past institutionalised racism and segregation in this country left many scars on its people; and the effects of this harmful praxis can never be forgotten and remain a legacy of the past oppressive regime.
Because of the long-term detrimental impact of racism on both sides of the spectrum, it is not appropriate that certain individuals, regardless of their race, give themselves permission to subject children to practices and behaviours that deepen differentiation and impart an inheritance of attitudes of superiority and entitlement by one race over another, based purely on the colour of the skin.
South Africa’s young democracy is fragile and needs constant nurturing.
It can only develop through drawing lessons from its past and honouring its potential.
Innocent children are being hauled into confronting the remnants of the legacy of apartheid, a price that is not theirs to pay.
The circle of hatred and anger is sadly being entrenched in the young and impressionable, creating an unending cycle.
An image of a black child sitting at a separate table from her classmates at a pre-school in Centurion spread on social media. The institution’s claim of not being agitators of racism should be scorned.
While children may not immediately comprehend the injustices of racial segregation, the long-term consequences will cause irrevocable harm to their emotional and pyschological wellbeing.
In addition, an unacceptable message is conveyed of failing efforts to promote equality and unite South Africa as the place for all of those who live in it.
Another case was highlighted at another pre-school which had separate concerts, or the private Curro school which divided classes according to race (this only changed after the intervention of the MEC for Education, who holds up the school as a model for change).
The role of a teacher comprises a significant duty to mould and nurture young minds into becoming future leaders and change agents.
Ultimately, teachers who continue to hold a divergent agenda, hinder the hope for this country to move towards a cohesive society and nation.
Therefore, it is time that decisive action is taken against teachers and principals guilty of racism.
Communities need to stand in solidarity to decisively remove anyone who perpetuates institutionalised racial discrimination.
The cycle needs to stop.
* Seth Mnguni is the chairman of the Board of the Association of Community Advice Offices in South Africa, which represents more than 300 advice offices in South Africa.
** The views expressed here are not necessarily those of Independent Media.
Pretoria News