The department of education in Western Cape has sanctioned five learners from Pinelands High School who locked their black peers in a cage and "auctioned" them off. This comes after a video titled "Slavery at school is crazy" went viral on social media in July.

ACCOUNTABILITY 

In the footage, black pupils can be seen standing behind a gate while their coloured classmates are heard making bids of various amounts between R50 000 and R100 000. The learners involved were suspended soon after the video went viral. Provincial education spokesperson Bronagh Hammond said they received communication from the school governing body that they have finalised the disciplinary process into the unacceptable misconduct of the five pupils. "The necessary disciplinary procedures were followed. The sanctions are restorative in nature and include participating in various workshops and learning programmes, written assignments, an apology, as well as community service," she said.

THEY MUST COMPLY

Hammond also said that several deadlines have been put in place to ensure accountability and compliance with the sanctions. "The sanctions were designed to help the learners involved gain a deeper understanding of the seriousness of the incident and its impact on others, particularly in the historical context of South Africa. This outcome was supported by the parents and learners involved, including the victims," she said. She said: "The school has indicated its commitment to continuing its journey in promoting non-racialism and diversity," she added.