By OBAKENG MAJE
A learner who allegedly assaulted a teacher at Obang Secondary School in Amalia, near Schweizer Reneke, was found guilty of contravening the school code of conduct of learners and the South African School Act. Katlego Keohitlhetse (20), his father, Ntwaetsile Frans Keohitlhetse (42), who works as a ground man at the school, including the School Governing Body (SBG) member, Tebogo William Seleke (46) allegedly assaulted a Mathematics teacher (58).
The North West Education spokesperson, Mphata Molokwane said the department is aware of the incident and Katlego was afforded a chance to appear before the Disciplinary Committee more than 10 times to highlight what led to the incident.
Molokwane further said, both the SGB member and the ground man also attended the disciplinary hearing to tell their side of the story and what transpired.
“They both denied that they assaulted the educator. Now, the matter is with Labour Relations and not yet concluded because of fewer officials. The matter remains pending and details cannot be divulged as this may jeopardize the case.
“The SGB at the school found the learner guilty of contravening the school Code of Conduct of learners and the South African School Act. The learner was charged with assault and his studies were suspended until 2 March 2023,” he said.
Molokwane added that, as the department, they can certify that the learner is receiving academic support and has returned to school to date. He said the department is committed to providing educators with the necessary training to combat bullying in schools, as well as methods for spreading preventative measures and support to learners.
“The educators are always prepared to offer assistance to both victims and perpetrators of bullying. There is a mechanism in place that permits every school to be linked to their local police station, allowing the South African Police Service (SAPS) to conduct searches and confiscate unlawful things within schools.
“Furthermore, SAPS can raise awareness about illegal activity and teach pupils how to prevent it on school premises,” said Molokwane.
Meanwhile, the North West police spokesperson in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati cluster, Warrant Officer Tryphosa van Rooyen said: “An assault with intent to cause Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH) case has been opened against three suspects and the matter was postponed until 7 August 2023.”
The Guardian 