SACE CEO Reports Surge in School Corporal Punishment

Graphic by John McCann Mail & Guardian

Anda Mbaliso

SACE Highlights Increase in Corporal Punishment and Sexual Misconduct

The South African Council for Educators (SACE) is deeply concerned about the increasing reports of corporal punishment and sexual misconduct in schools. This is a serious issue that requires urgent attention. In a recent meeting held in Kempton Park, Ekurhuleni, SACE brought together key stakeholders to discuss how to better regulate teacher conduct in the education sector. The focus is on promoting coordinated rules and ensuring teachers are held accountable for their actions.

Ella Mokgalane, CEO of SACE, underscored the concerning trend, noting, “One of the things we have noticed in terms of our statistics is that the cases are increasing. On top of our list is your corporal punishment and also sexual misconduct cases and human relations among teachers themselves within the school.” Mokgalane stressed the necessity of formulating a code of ethics that effectively addresses reported cases of education misconduct.

Learners at Risk Despite SACE Interventions

Amidst these challenges, the plight of learners subjected to corporal punishment remains distressingly prevalent, with an estimated one million children still enduring such disciplinary measures. Furthermore, incidents of learners assaulting teachers, including alarming cases of stabbing and shootings, persist, highlighting the urgent need for proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of all stakeholders within the educational environment.
Mokgalane emphasized the importance of empowering educators to confront escalating violence, advocating for a protective stance towards children.

“We should not harm the children, we must protect, ensure rights are protected. We capacitate our educators in order to understand the implications of harming children through corporal punishment or sexual misconduct cases,” she asserted, urging restraint and resilience in the face of adversities.
Elijah Mhlanga, spokesperson for the Basic Education Department, echoed these concerns, lamenting the increasing number of sexual misconduct cases involving teachers. He emphasized the pivotal role of teachers in upholding their social responsibilities and adhering to the prescribed code of conduct, stressing that the well-being and interests of the child must remain paramount.

Furthermore, SACE emphasized that amidst the specter of misconduct and abuse, it is the innocent child who bears the consequences of such transgressions, underscoring the need for collaborative efforts among parents, schools, and communities to safeguard the ongoing welfare and security of learners. By fostering a culture of accountability, empathy, and mutual respect, stakeholders can collectively strive towards creating a nurturing and protective educational environment for all.