School discipline needs more discussion, thought

VMohamed Saeed

writes Pietermaritzburg. from iolence against children and specifically corporal punishment in schools needs several critical conversations to address.

The department of education has correctly banned corporal punishment in schools through the enactment of various legislation, like the SA Schools Act of 1996.

Although considerable progress has been made in stopping the practice of using the stick to discipline students, unfortunately corporal punishment is still widely used in schools, despite being outlawed.

However, it is vital to point out that while all the praiseworthy and much-need policies and procedures to support educational transformation are commendable, legislators must take into consideration today’s behavioural problems, social ills and non-compliance to school rules.

Undoubtedly, for effective learning and teaching to take place in schools, rules are needed and punishment is also needed for those who break the rules and disrupt school activities.

The type of sanction the school may impose must be determined and regulated by law.

However, I believe legislation is also needed for absent parent syndrome and unruly conduct of pupils.

According to research, some teachers claim that discipline at schools and constantly having to deal with learners engaging in disruptive behaviour has taken away their passion and joy for teaching.

Together with corporal punishment, there are much deeper issues affecting learning and teaching in South African schools that need attention.

I believe legislation is also needed for absent parent syndrome.