Cry for help must not be obscured

It is common cause that educational spaces such as schools or university campuses are microcosms of the broader society in which we live. Therefore, it is hardly surprising when allegations of social ills such as violence or discrimination emerge from these spaces. What is important, then, is how these matters are dealt with when highlighted in the public domain. Since the weekend, we have reported on the allegations of racism by pupils against five teachers at Riebeek College Girls’ High School in Uitenhage.

At least 107 girls have signed an anti-racism petition given to the school principal, detailing various alleged incidents of discrimination by the teachers in question.

Many of these are comments made by teachers which the girls felt were covertly or overtly discriminatory in nature.

Predictably, this story has been met with bitterly opposing views. Some have pledged support for the girls while others have sought to dismiss their lived experiences as nothing more than misunderstandings or oversensitivity on the part of the pupils.

With the matter under investigation by the education department, the EFF has wasted no time stepping in to lead what it says is a militant campaign against racism at the school.

The political reaction was perhaps to be expected. However, we must warn it would be even more tragic if the girls’ cry for help was to be mired in political expediency. The goal should be to ensure those who are found to have abused their power and trampled on the dignity of pupils are held to account through a credible process within the educational framework.

Further, it is to ensure that the school creates a conducive environment where the experience of all its pupils is one of equality and social inclusion, where the rights and dignity of all are respected.

To achieve this the school, together with the department officials, must exercise leadership and demonstrate willingness to address even the most difficult and complex issues raised by the pupils. Burying their heads in the sand will only serve to allow toxic and populist views to define what should be a constructive engagement on this matter.