DURBAN: A principal at a northern KwaZulu-Natal high school has been accused of corporal punishment.
The DA has written to the MEC for Education Kwazi Mshengu asking for an investigation into the principal's conduct.
In its letter, DA spokesperson Dr Imran Keeka said a Grade 12 female pupil was left with blisters after allegedly being caned on the hand for walking from one class to another to borrow a pen.
“The DA strongly condemns the assault of this pupil. Shockingly, we were also reliably informed that this is not an isolated incident and a habitual practice of this principal,” he said.
He said while the pupils' family – who notified the DA of this incident – are reluctant to press charges for fear of victimisation.
“We have encouraged them to do so and to seek medical attention.
“No one should leave any type of assault unreported because it allows for perpetrators to continue with their lawless misconduct,” he added.
Apart from calling on the MEC to conduct a comprehensive probe, the DA has also asked him to suspend the principal until such time as all the facts can be gathered.
“Additionally, we have called on MEC Mshengu to lay criminal charges,” he said.
Education Department spokesperson Muzi Mahlambi said the department is not aware of the incident but would investigate the matter and if it was found to be true, the department would not hesitate to take disciplinary action.
THE MERCURY