RUSTENBURG SCHOOL MATTER REEKS OF RACISM

A GROUP calling themselves Parents for Change at Rustenburg Girls’ Junior School yesterday complained about resistance to transformation at the Rondebosch establishment.

Concerns they expressed came in the wake of Grade 5 teacher Nozipho Mthembu’s resignation. She had allegedly been discriminated against; working conditions had become so intolerable that she had no other choice.

The Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration found the school guilty of unfair labour practices. The group lamented messages by other parents that have been doing the rounds disputing Mthembu’s qualifications and questioning whether she should be a teacher by virtue of a black skin.

Mthembu was the only black African teacher at Rustenburg and, after she left, was replaced by a white teacher. This matter reeks of racism.

Nearly 25 years into democracy and we’re still having to deal with elements in the community refusing to accept change. It is disgusting.

What example is being shown to the pupils when parents take issue with a teacher because she’s not white?

To these parents, our message is: the majority of teachers work very hard under very difficult conditions. They do their best to educate our children. If you’re unhappy with your child being taught by a black teacher, go somewhere else.

Alternatively, make peace with the fact that black teachers can be as competent as their white peers. Don’t aggravate the mess the education system has become in the country.

Peace.