North West education department condemns viral footage of learner abusing teacher

The North West Department of Education has condemned a learner’s alleged foul-mouthed and disrespectful attack on a teacher after video of the incident circulated widely on social media, the department said on Thursday.

Incident reported and disciplinary steps ordered

The department confirmed the matter was reported to the relevant district office and said school authorities had been instructed to follow the appropriate disciplinary procedures.

Department statement and concerns

Dr Elias Malindi, a department spokesperson, said schools must remain places where teachers and learners can work and learn in an environment built on safety and respect.

“Education is the bedrock of our society, and schools must remain safe, respectful, and conducive environments for teaching and learning,”

he said.

Malindi described the conduct seen in the video as unacceptable and said it undermined educators.

“When a learner resorts to verbal abuse and disrespect toward a teacher, it erodes the moral fabric of our schooling system and demeans the teaching profession,”

he said.

Support, consequences and a call to parents

The department said the matter would be handled through relevant disciplinary processes in line with the South African Schools Act and the school’s code of conduct. Malindi warned learners that misconduct could have consequences and said psycho-social support would be provided where necessary.

“We want to send a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated. Disciplinary action will be taken, and where necessary, psycho-social support will be provided to both the learner and the educator to ensure a restorative approach is followed,”

he said.

The department also called on parents and guardians to play a greater role in teaching children about respect, accountability and discipline.

“We cannot leave the responsibility of instilling values solely to educators. Parents must reinforce the importance of respect, accountability, and obedience at home, so that these values are reflected in the classroom,”

Malindi said.

Backing the teacher and asking the public to stop sharing

The department commended the teacher for maintaining professionalism and reiterated that the safety and wellbeing of educators remained a priority.

“We stand in solidarity with the teacher and all educators who continue to serve with dedication under challenging circumstances. Their commitment to the profession must be matched by our commitment to protect and support them,”

Malindi said.

Officials also urged the public to stop sharing the video, warning that further circulation could cause additional harm to those involved.