The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) is currently investigating two separate reports of racist behavior at Cape Town schools, which have sparked outrage from parents and political figures. These incidents, occurring within a week, have highlighted ongoing concerns about racial discrimination in the education sector. The first incident involves a white substitute teacher at Table View High School, who is accused of using a racial slur during a history lesson on July 17. Reports from parents allege that the teacher used the K-word in front of Grade 12 students.
The second case took place at Pinelands High School, where a group of colored students were recorded engaging in a mock auction, selling their black classmates. The incident was filmed on a cellphone and subsequently shared on social media. Concerned parent Merle Potgieter reported the incident to the school’s management.
Zena Nair, the SAHRC Western Cape provincial manager, confirmed that both incidents are under investigation by the Western Cape Police Ombudsman. “I can confirm that the Western Cape Police Ombudsman is aware of these matters and that they are being investigated,” Nair said.
In response to the incidents, Masizole Mnqasela of the Alliance for Citizens of Change (ACC) has urged SAHRC commissioner Chris Nissen to conduct an urgent investigation and adopt a zero-tolerance stance on racism. Mnqasela’s letter highlights the need for accountability and emphasizes that schools should be places where social cohesion is fostered, not undermined. “Our schools are the bedrock of societal norms and standards. There is no place for hate in South Africa; those who spread division must be held accountable,” Mnqasela wrote.
Opposition leader Khalid Sayed, ANC MPL, has called for a comprehensive investigation into racism in Cape Town schools, asserting that the incident at Pinelands High School is part of a broader pattern of racial injustice. “This appalling display of racism is not an isolated event but part of a long-standing issue within many schools in the Western Cape,” Sayed said. He stressed that such incidents reflect the pervasive problem of racism that often goes unreported in former Model C schools.
Bronagh Hammond, spokesperson for the Western Cape Education Department (WCED), acknowledged awareness of the Pinelands High School video. “The school management has engaged with both staff and students. The School Governing Body (SGB) has convened, and several students have been temporarily suspended while the investigation continues,” Hammond reported.
Professor Aslam Fataar, a research professor in transformation at Stellenbosch University’s Department of Education Policy Studies, suggested that addressing these incidents requires a comprehensive approach. “While the actions of the students were unacceptable, this issue must be tackled holistically,” Fataar said. He attributed the resurgence of racist and xenophobic attitudes to current political rhetoric and a lack of education about historical injustices.
“Children often reflect community views, and the use of derogatory language and auctioning of classmates points to a broader issue of inadequate education about the history of slavery and racism,” Fataar emphasized that the Education Department should not merely conduct investigations but integrate constitutional values into school codes of conduct to prevent such incidents in the future.
In other news – Meikles Hotel staff allege racism and bullying by general manager
Hyatt Regency Harare, formerly known as Meikles Hotel, a leading establishment in Zimbabwe, is currently facing significant controversy due to serious allegations against its general manager, Jonas Amstad. The controversy revolves around claims of racism and violations of labor laws.
A group of employees has formally complained to the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, urging immediate intervention. The complaint details several grievances against Amstad, including claims that he has consistently made racist comments and slurs, thereby fostering a hostile work environment. Read More
