#NorkemParkHigh expels two after violent videos go viral

Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi tackles viral clips of violence at Norkem Park High School, East of Johannesburg. Picture: Lindi Masinga/ANA

Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi tackles viral clips of violence at Norkem Park High School, East of Johannesburg. Picture: Lindi Masinga/ANA

Published Aug 18, 2017

Share

Johannesburg - Gauteng MEC for Education Panyaza Lesufi has welcomed the decision by a Kempton Park high school to expel two pupils involved in violent behaviour, it was announced on Friday.

 

This after an earlier announcement that 12 pupils at Norkem Park High School had been suspended after several videos showing pupils fighting and one pupil in possession of a gun went viral on social media.

Lesufi visited the school following this, telling pupils and teachers that the situation at the school was "out of control" and that assistance had already been sought from the South African Police Services to carry out random searches at the school.

"I have asked the police to get involved, this morning alone two learners assaulted two teachers," Lesufi said at the time, adding that he was disappointed.

The department in a statement confirmed that the disputes were over relationship issues and took place between August 14-15 outside the school premises. 

"The MEC met with the school management and commended the school for taking swift action against the pupils involved in the incident.

"MEC Lesufi has implored the educators and SGB to maintain discipline and ensure that the education is not disrupted by unruly elements."

Lesufi also extended an apology to educators for the difficult working conditions under which they are working. 

He further committed to return to the school for a parents’ meeting.

Lesufi called for the policy of expulsion to be reviewed, saying that expelled pupils needed to "undergo a programme of rehabilitation, before they are placed at another school". 

"The department strongly condemns violence and disruption of education at our schools and will not hesitate to intervene on issues of ill-discipline and misconduct by learners or educators."

Meanwhile, 10 pupils remain on suspension while investigations continue and will appear before disciplinary hearing once the investigation is concluded. 

IOL

Related Topics: