DA: Statement by Khume Ramulifho, calls on Education MEC to release Hoër Volkskool racism report (25/09/2013)

25th September 2013 By: Motshabi Hoaeane

The DA in Gauteng wants Education MEC Barbara Creecy to release the 2010 investigation report on racism at the Hoër Volkskool in the Lesedi Local Municipality.
 
In a comprehensive reply to my question the MEC indicated hard copies of the report were not released to the school. Instead the 2010 report was "mediated" with the former principal, acting principal and school governing body while the Head of Department simply addressed a letter to the principal in which the findings and recommendations of the 2010 investigation report was set out.
 
This year a 17 learners were suspended and charged with misconduct related to racism at the school.
 
The department intends conducting another investigation while the previous one is outstanding.
 
The school governing body cannot be expected to deal with recurring race-related issues at the school if they are denied the full report into previous instances.
 
The DA believes that the school must receive the full report to allow it to effectively address incidents of racism. This should also empower the school to take the necessary action to promote diversity at the school, which is needed urgently.