Following the precautionary suspension of the principal from Pretoria High School for Girls for a racism incident, Gauteng Education MEC, Matome Chiloane, has confirmed he department will be conducting a diversity and social cohesion programme, which will be regularly monitored to ensure its efficacy. This will be done with the assistance of the Matthew Goniwe School of Leadership and Governance.

INVESTIGATIONS 

Two weeks ago, 12 white learners were suspended after the discovery of a WhatsApp group where they were allegedly making racial complaints about black learners.  

Following this the principal was suspended and it will be for 90 days pending an investigation into allegations that complaints reported by learners to the principal were ignored. Additionally, the district announced the appointment of an acting principal, who is one of the school's deputy principals, to serve in the position until the investigation is completed. "The SGB will continue their disciplinary process today for two days and their report will be shared with the department upon completion. All learners affected by the incident will receive support during the examination period," Chiloane said.

SCHOOL TO BE MONITORED 

Chiloane emphasised that, "We encourage learners and teachers not to get tired of reporting any ill-discipline or transgressions against the school code of conduct. Parents are also encouraged to report any allegation of ill-treatment to the district for necessary intervention. Educators need to always assist us to develop learners in our schooling environments. We call upon activists to avoid converging outside the school during this critical examination period to allow learners to focus on their academics,' said Chiloane.