The South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU) has denounced the recent surge in racist incidents in Western Cape schools, emphasizing the need for swift action to eradicate this toxic behavior and promote an inclusive learning environment.
(The Post News)- The SADTU has expressed deep concern over the persistence of racism in schools, despite South Africa’s democratic transition. The union highlighted two disturbing incidents: a social media video depicting pupils at Pinelands High School auctioning off their black classmates, and a white history teacher at Tabel View High using the K-word in a grade 12 lesson.
The union emphasized that racism undermines the South African constitution’s vision of a non-racial society. They attributed the lack of progress in eradicating racism to a lack of dedication in some Western Cape schools. Racism, the union stressed, is a relic of South Africa’s traumatic past and must be vigorously confronted.
Citing anti-hate crime legislation, the union condemned the use of the K-word as “extremely offensive and prohibited.” They emphasized that racism violates core human rights principles and breaches the constitution, necessitating accountability for those who encourage or ignore such behavior.
The SADTU urged the Western Cape Department of Education to treat these incidents with utmost seriousness, calling for the involved educator’s precautionary suspension. They demanded diversity initiatives at Pinelands High School and a comprehensive investigation into racism at both schools by the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC).
Nomusa Cembi, SADTU spokesperson, expressed disappointment that the teacher in the Table View High incident was not immediately suspended, potentially compromising the investigation. The Western Cape SAHRC confirmed that the police commissioner has been notified, and an investigation is underway.
The SADTU’s stance underscores the need for collective action to root out racism in schools, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all learners.
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