A classroom altercation at Eastwood Secondary School, captured on video and widely shared online, has led to the suspension of the learners involved and a formal investigation by education authorities and SAPS. Picture Credit: Facebook
By Aisha Zardad
Pietermaritzburg — A video circulating widely on social media showing a pupil being assaulted at Eastwood Secondary School in Pietermaritzburg has led to intervention from KwaZulu-Natal Education MEC Sipho Hlomuka.
The incident, shows a learner being repeatedly attacked inside a classroom while other pupils can be heard laughing in the background. The footage sparked outrage online and prompted immediate action from education authorities.
According to the Department of Education, the alleged perpetrators have been suspended pending the outcome of an investigation. School management and the South African Police Service (SAPS) are both involved in addressing the matter, and a criminal case has been opened.
In an official statement, Hlomuka expressed deep concern over the incident, stressing that violence and intimidation have no place in schools.
“Following the incident, the circuit management officials, SGB, together with the South African Police Service (SAPS), visited the school to conduct investigations and to provide the necessary support to the affected pupils, teachers, and the broader school community,” the statement read.
The department confirmed that a meeting would be convened to determine the way forward.
“In line with Departmental policy and pending the outcome of the investigation, the alleged perpetrators have been suspended from school as a precautionary measure to safeguard learners and allow due process to take its course. MEC Hlomuka has called on parents, teachers and communities to work collaboratively with the Department to instil discipline, respect, and positive values among pupils,” the statement continued.
Hlomuka further emphasised that schools must remain safe environments for learning and development.
“Acts of bullying have no place in our education system. We commend the swift intervention by school management, Circuit officials, and SAPS, and we will ensure that appropriate action is taken once the investigation has been finalised.”
Authorities have urged the school community to allow the investigative process to unfold while support is provided to those affected.
