Johannesburg – Parents and pupils at Hoerskool Elspark in Germiston have accused the school of racism after a fight on the premises led to two pupils being stabbed.
Two Grade 11 learners may face criminal charges after a stabbing incident took place, allegedly over a stolen cellphone.
According to the Gauteng Department of Education, the conflict began on Friday but spilt over to Monday when it was left unresolved.
The incident has brought allegations of racism to the fore.
Some parents and pupils have said discrimination based on skin colour is part of the culture of the school.
“They tell us we always want to see colour when everything here at school is about colour. If you’re black, you get certain things and you don’t get certain things and if you’re white you get most of the stuff because this is your area, apparently,” said one parent.
The department said schools that have recently become integrated are more vulnerable to racial tensions.
Steve Mabona, the department’s spokesperson said: “we have admitted that pockets of racism or behaviour that are not acceptable you’re prone to see because it’s a system that you are changing, it’s people that you are changing, and it’s people, its human beings. I mean if someone was taught a certain way it becomes difficult for you to change them in a day.”
Seven pupils have been suspended for the brawl.
Investigations are ongoing and a report into the matter is expected to be handed to the department on Friday.
