Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

4-minute read
04 November 2024 | 17:34 CAT

News24 recently reported that a Pretoria High School for Girls pupil was suspended over racism allegations. (Gallo Images/Beeld/Deaan Vivier)

A comprehensive report by the Gauteng Department of Education has shed light on severe racial tensions and unresolved issues at Pretoria School for Girls, dating back to 2019. The report, compiled after a series of complaints from students and staff, highlights an unsettling environment where both black and white learners, as well as educators, have faced racial hostility and discriminatory practices.

In an interview on Radio Islam International, Department spokesperson Steve Mabona pointed out the findings: “There are incidences of a racial nature reported from 2019 up until 2024.” According to the report, many black teachers voiced feelings of marginalization and exclusion by their white colleagues. The principal confirmed awareness of these issues, expressing concern over the need to build a more inclusive atmosphere among staff.

The investigation also revealed numerous student complaints regarding racial abuse, including derogatory language and slurs directed at both black and white learners. In some cases, black students reported being targeted by racial slurs and unfair treatment, only for their grievances to be disregarded by the school administration. In 2020, white students also reported racial incidents that similarly went unaddressed, highlighting a pattern of inaction from school management. Such dismissals have contributed to a climate of mistrust, with students from diverse backgrounds feeling unsupported and ignored.

A WhatsApp group conversation was among the initial triggers for the investigation. Although the students involved in the chat were eventually exonerated, the case exposed deeper-rooted issues within the school, with evidence of racially charged discussions intensifying existing divisions.

The report further pointed to unprofessional conduct by certain educators, who allegedly used disrespectful language toward students. This has raised concerns about the lack of accountability and a perceived reluctance by the school to address these issues head-on.

Another key issue highlighted in the report is the appointment of an underqualified finance manager, a move criticized as preferential. The individual appointed lacked the necessary degree or diploma for the role, raising questions about hiring practices within the school. According to Mabona, the appointment suggests potential favouritism, sparking outrage among staff members who feel that transparency was disregarded.

With a history spanning over a century, Pretoria School for Girls has long held a reputation as one of the country’s leading educational institutions. Yet, the findings reveal fractures that demand healing and reform. Calls are mounting for the school to return to its foundational values of equality and mutual respect, with many hoping it can once again become a welcoming environment for all.

Listen to the full interview on Your World Today with Mufti Yusuf Moosagie and Department spokesperson Steve Mabona here.