Boy, 9, allegedly beaten by principal

THE provincial education department is investigating the alleged abuse of a 9-yearold pupil at Herbertsdale Primary by his principal.

Allegations have emerged that the principal hit the child with a stick. The child stays at a nearby hostel and was apparently threatened with expulsion if he told anyone about the incident. The principal also allegedly threatened another pupil who witnessed the incident with expulsion.

Department spokesperson Millicent Merton said corporal punishment is illegal in terms of the South African Schools Act. “The Western Cape Education Department views incidents of corporal punishment in a serious light and fully investigates all allegations reported to the department.

“The alleged incident at Herbertsdale Primary school was reported to the department and will be investigated.”

Speaking on behalf of the family, Dawid Kamfer said the incident happened last Friday. He said the boy was screaming while being hit, attracting the attention of another pupil, who was then allegedly threatened.

This child’s parents apparently told the parents of the allegedly abused boy.

School governing body chairperson Kevin Julies said it would have an urgent meeting regarding the allegations.