The department has started a thorough investigation in the fight and promised that those who have been found responsible will face the results.
Quazulu-Natal Education Department has condemned a violent physical change involving students at Lakhwen Secondary School in Umlazi, describing the incident as “disappointing” and “unacceptable”.
A video roaming on social media shows the students engaged in a group battle on the school ground.
This incident, which has given rise to public outrage, involves allegations of racial intolerance, something that the department has strongly condemned.
Zero tolerance for school violence
The department has reiterated its zero tolerance stance on school violence in any form.
The department said, “This violent act captured on the video is disproved by the department and it shows the learners involved in a group physical battle in full school uniform.”
Kzn education MEC Sipho Hlomuka said that the department will work rapidly and decisively to ensure accountability.
“Schools are safe, where teaching and learning should be our number one priority.
Hlomuka said, “To endanger the safety of learners, teachers and employees is a serious criminal offense, against the law and we will act decisively to curb these incidents.”
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Complete investigation is going on
The department has started a thorough investigation in the fight and promised that those who have been found responsible will face the results.
It is not yet clear whether disciplinary action will be taken, but the department said that criminals would be “brought to book.”
The department emphasized that racial intolerance “has no place in schools and society.”
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Support for affected students
In addition, the department has expressed concern for the victims of violence and is committed to providing necessary assistance.
“The department deeply regrets its learners on the physical damage and emotional crisis caused by this incident and wishes them for rapid recovery and treatment,” it said.
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