Substitute teacher uses racial slur at Table View High School

A substitute teacher had used a racial slur, the K-word, during a matric history lesson on black consciousness at Table View High School on July 17.

PICTURE: Stock Images

The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) confirmed that an investigation is underway.

“The school acted immediately on the allegations and has submitted a report to the department, including statements from the learners. The alleged incident involves a substitute teacher. The school is monitoring the classroom practice of the teacher and has apologised to the learners for the hurt they experienced,” said Bronagh Hammond, WCED spokesperson. 

 “We are required to follow the relevant procedures. Based on the findings of that investigation, a decision will be made regarding a disciplinary hearing,” said Hammond.  

The South African Democratic Trade Union (SADTU) in the Western Cape described the incident as ‘’deeply distressed’’

‘’Racism is a common place in “some” schools in the Western Cape and there is no commitment to root out this demon and relic of our painful past. Racism is a sign of intolerance and backwardness. It has no place in our society and must be relegated to a beast status. The use of the K-word is very offensive and prohibited in terms of Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate speeches, Act 16 of 2023,’’ said Jonovan Rustin, SADTU Provincial Secretariat.

‘’Racism is a severe breach of constitutional principles and a fundamental human rights issue. Those responsible for promoting or turning a blind eye to such behaviour must be held accountable. We cannot tolerate the use of derogatory language, such as the K-word, especially within educational institutions. Educators serve as role models for children and should consistently exemplify the values we wish to instil in future leaders,’’ he added.

 

Done By: Mitchum George