The South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU) in North West has called for decisive action against learners accused of verbally and physically attacking educators at two schools in Taung.
The union’s call follows incidents reported at Batlhaping Secondary School and Mankuroane Technical School, which have sparked concern over growing levels of learner indiscipline.
Videos circulating on social media appear to show a Grade 9 learner verbally abusing a teacher in a classroom, while another video shows a learner allegedly assaulting an educator at Mankuroane Technical School.
SADTU North West provincial secretary Els Themba said the union was deeply concerned about what it described as increasing incidents of verbal abuse, threats, intimidation and violence against educators.
The union believes teachers cannot effectively perform their duties while facing threats to their safety and called for immediate intervention when serious misconduct occurs.
SADTU also urged the involvement of law enforcement authorities in cases where learner conduct amounts to a criminal offence, arguing that violence against educators should not be treated solely as a disciplinary matter.
North West Education MEC Dr Desbo Mohono has condemned the incidents, saying violence, intimidation, abuse and disrespect towards teachers would not be tolerated.
Mohono said educators must be able to work in safe and respectful environments that support effective teaching and learning.
The department plans to work with the Quality Learning and Teaching Campaign, social workers, the South African Police Service and other stakeholders to provide support and interventions for affected teachers, learners and school communities.
Mohono also appealed to parents, communities, School Governing Bodies and other education stakeholders to work with the department to strengthen discipline and promote respect and positive values among learners.
