Some parents in Tsakane, Ekurhuleni, have temporarily removed their children at the Geluksdal Secondary School, following tensions at the school after last week’s killing of a grade 10 learner, Shawn Mphela, allegedly by gang members.
One of the parents, Prince Kopane, said he’s concerned about the safety of his two children adding that all parents are panicking and wondering if their children are safe after the killing of Mphela.
“I’m panicking due to the situation that is happening. I want my two children to be removed from school who knows maybe it will escalate (the gang violence),” he said.
Another parent who spoke on condition of anonymity to protect her child said she is afraid to send her back to the school.
“Other children are not attending classes, they are on the streets so we are afraid to leave our children at this school,” said the mother of a Grade 10 learner.
Hundreds of learners marched from the school to the court where the suspect linked to the killing of Mphela appeared.
The pupils also alleged that they were subjected to racism at the school.
National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Gauteng Spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana said three suspects have been arrested in connection with Mphela’s killing, but only one appeared at Tsakane Magistrate’s Court today.
He is expected to appear again in court on the 15th of February.
Gauteng Department of Education Spokesperson Steve Mabona said it is in a process of launching multiple investigations into allegations of racism at Geluksdal Secondary School.
“There was a demand for an investigation from the school but it’s a process to appoint a law firm or any that is independent in leading any investigation we want to give it a fair process,” Mabona said.
He also said there will also be an internal investigation from the department and called upon the learners to return to classes to resume with their education.
“We are calling all parents to work with us. Let’s encourage children to go back to school. I’m thinking of Grade 12’s who should start the academic year on a high note,” he said.
