25 June 2025 | 12:32 CAT
2-minute read

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Johannesburg – South African schools are failing to adequately address racism because anti-racism education is largely absent from the national curriculum. This is according to Teresa Oakley-Smith, founder and CEO of the transformation and diversity consultancy firm, Diversi-T.

Speaking on Radio Islam, Oakley-Smith said that despite the country’s long history of racial discrimination, there is still very little structured guidance for schools on how to deal with racist incidents.

“I think there’s very little and it’s really inadequate because when you think of our history and when you think of the damage that racism can do and when you think that it’s been more than 30 years since we’ve been a democracy, one would have hoped that it would have, you know, a fairly prominent place in life orientation,” she said.

Oakley-Smith pointed out that many teachers are unsure of how to respond when they encounter racism in schools. She explained that while some may offer a brief reprimand, it often stops there, with no further action or structured follow-up.

“They need a curriculum which builds strength, not only in children but teachers, educators too, need to understand what to do,” she said.

In addition to strengthening the curriculum, Oakley-Smith emphasised the importance of interactive, community-based learning rather than passive classroom lectures. She said anti-racism education should involve role plays, videos, and activities that fully engage learners, teachers, and parents alike.

“The more interactive it can be, the more enjoyable, the more fun that you can make it, the more likely children are to remember it and to understand it,” she explained.

Oakley-Smith stressed that racism is not limited to one racial group targeting another, noting a recent case where an Indian child made racist comments. She said addressing racism requires a comprehensive approach involving educators, learners, and parents to reshape the culture of school communities.

She concluded by calling for collaboration with the Department of Education and diversity experts to develop more effective policies and practical tools that equip schools to handle racial incidents with confidence and consistency.

Listen to the full interview with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat on Sabaahul Muslim.