The Eastern Cape Department of Education will visit David Mama Senior Secondary School in Mdantsane on Monday following the circulation of a disturbing video showing learners physically assaulting a fellow pupil.
The footage, which has gone viral on social media, captures male learners slapping and pushing a female pupil as they disembark from what appears to be scholar transport. The incident has sparked outrage, prompting the provincial education department to condemn the behavior as “unacceptable.”
Department Responds
Eastern Cape Education MEC spokesperson, Velani Mbiza Gola, confirmed that the department was unaware of the incident until the video surfaced online.
“In all honesty, the department would not have known unless someone reported it,” Gola admitted during an interview. He explained that while schools have safety protocols within their premises, monitoring behavior on scholar transport remains a challenge.
Accountability and Immediate Actions
Gola emphasized that the learners involved would face disciplinary action, including possible suspension, while the victim would receive psychosocial support.
“The South African Schools Act is clear on disciplinary steps for such behavior,” he stated. “The perpetrators will be suspended to protect the victim, and an investigation will determine further corrective measures.”
However, given that the accused are minors, the department is obligated to ensure they continue receiving education, even if transferred to another school.
Broader Safety Concerns
The incident has reignited concerns about learner safety beyond school grounds. Gola acknowledged gaps in supervision during commutes, stating that while the department oversees school premises, safety during transport falls under a broader societal responsibility.
“The driver, as the only adult present, may not always be able to prevent such incidents,” he noted, calling for collaboration with community policing forums and law enforcement to enhance safety.
Next Steps
On Monday, the department will convene with school officials, social development representatives, and SAPS to provide psychosocial support and conduct anti-bullying awareness campaigns.
“We must address this scourge collectively,” Gola said, urging communities to report incidents rather than rely on social media exposure.
As investigations proceed, the department faces mounting pressure to implement stronger safeguards for learners—both inside and outside the classroom.