- WCED is investigating allegations of racism at Table View High School.
- A substitute teacher is accused of using the racial slur “k-word” towards black pupils.
- The school has submitted a report to the WCED, including statements from the learners.
Table View High School in Cape Town has been embroiled in a controversy following allegations of racism by a substitute teacher.
WCED confirms alleged racist incident at Table View High School
According to a parent, Loyiso Mfubesi, the teacher allegedly called black students derogatory names, including “k***irs,” during a class on Wednesday, 17 July 2024.
The parent, whose child was among those allegedly abused, expressed outrage over the incident and the school’s handling of the matter.
The parent recounted the incident in a detailed account, highlighting the emotional trauma inflicted on the students.
“It is beyond disgusting and disappointing that the same person who was reported for the crime against humanity was allowed to enter a classroom full of the same black children she abused and boastfully told that she was clear about her stance about them being ‘kaffirs,'” the parent wrote.
The parent also criticised the school’s response, accusing it of protecting the teacher and failing to adequately address the situation.
Teacher accused of using ‘k-word’ toward black pupils
The WCED has confirmed that it is taking the allegations seriously and has launched an investigation.
In a statement to Swisher Post, the department emphasised its zero-tolerance policy towards racism in schools.
“Racism is simply NOT tolerated in our schools. The school acted immediately on the allegations and has submitted a report to the department, including statements from the learners,” WCED spokesperson Bronagh Hammond said.
The incident is currently under investigation by the Labour Relations directorate of the WCED.
The findings of this investigation will determine whether a disciplinary hearing is warranted for the substitute teacher involved.