The IFP in KwaZulu-Natal calls on the MEC for Education, Peggy Nkonyeni, to conduct an urgent investigation into the claims that learners in Mnyakanya High School in Nkandla, next to President Zuma’s home, were forced by the school principal and local Inkosi to pay goats as punishment at school.
“It has been reported that last month a fight broke out between learners after school, which resulted in the principal instructing the learners and their parents to pay goats or R1000 to the Inkosi of the KwaNxamala clan if they wanted to return to school. Proof of payment was allegedly also required. This is against the law and an urgent investigation is necessary because it has been alleged that even the School Governing Body is aware of this matter,” said IFP KZN Education Spokesperson, Mrs Thembeni kaMadlopha-Mthethwa, MPL.
“It has been further alleged that Amakhosi are also involved in these disciplinary processes. Although we respect the role played by Amakhosi in our communities we believe that they must not interfere in taking decisions when it comes to disciplinary matters, even if the schools are in their areas. The investigation must also be extended into the relationship between Inkosi and the school principal,” continued Mrs kaMadlopha-Mthethwa.
“We urge schools to ensure that tried and tested punishments remain appropriate responses to bad behaviour such as detention,” concluded Mrs kaMadlopha-Mthethwa.
