Pretoria High School for Girls Racism Scandal
The Pretoria High School for Girls is at the center of a significant racism scandal that has drawn widespread attention and prompted serious misconduct charges against key staff members. This troubling situation highlights systemic issues within the institution, revealing a concerning culture of racial bias and discrimination among both educators and pupils.
Investigation Findings
According to a recent report released by the Gauteng Department of Education, there is substantial evidence of racism at the school. The investigation, conducted by Mdladlamba Attorneys, was commissioned after numerous complaints of racial discrimination were lodged against the school dating back to 2016, with reports resurfacing in 2020 and most recently in 2023-24. Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture, and Recreation, Matome Chiloane, stated unequivocally, “I don’t tolerate racism. I hate racism because I know what it does.”
The independent investigation found various allegations of misconduct, including selective discipline based on race and instances of racism between students, teachers, and even between teachers themselves. One particularly alarming revelation from the investigation noted that some white teachers refrained from greeting their black colleagues, allegedly unsure if they were fellow educators or cleaning staff. This statement, albeit anecdotal, underscores a deep-seated bias within the school’s culture that needs immediate addressing.
Key Personnel Under Scrutiny
As a result of the findings, the report recommended that the school’s principal, Phillipa Erasmus, deputy principal Doret Schoombie, two teachers, the estate manager, and the HR manager face charges of misconduct. The principal had been suspended earlier in July 2024 amid the controversy over 12 matric pupils who were accused of making racist comments in a WhatsApp group. However, these students were later exonerated in an independent investigation and returned to school.
The investigation also highlighted that the principal and other key staff members failed to comply with their responsibilities in addressing the reports of racism, leaving many incidents unaddressed and allowing a toxic environment to fester. Mdladlamba pointed out that when he attempted to address the allegations, many teachers were reluctant to identify their colleagues who had allegedly engaged in racially biased behavior.
Mismanagement and Racial Bias
The findings went beyond interpersonal relationships among teachers and revealed troubling patterns in school management. It was reported that a finance manager was hired not based on merit but due to her race, violating the school’s employment policies. Additionally, the estate facility manager demonstrated discriminatory behavior, failing to greet black employees and using abusive language toward them.
Concerningly, the investigation also found that the school did not effectively address incidents of bullying among students that had racial undertones. Reports indicated that a black student was openly bullying a white teacher, yet no disciplinary action was taken, highlighting a selective application of discipline that raises serious ethical concerns.
Reaction from Various Stakeholders
The controversy has sparked outrage and a call for accountability from various stakeholders. The Thabo Mbeki Foundation recently released findings indicating that no racism existed at the school, criticizing the Department of Education for its handling of the investigation and suggesting that the department was intent on tarnishing the school’s reputation.
Sergio Dos Santos, the DA shadow MEC of education in Gauteng, has also voiced concerns, stating, “The terms of reference have deviated.” He questioned the relevance of unrelated matters, such as the principal’s husband driving a school vehicle, to the core issues of racial bias being investigated.
Moving Forward
As Pretoria High School for Girls grapples with these serious allegations, it faces a pivotal moment to reassess its policies, culture, and leadership practices. The recommendations for misconduct charges against senior staff members signal a crucial step towards accountability. However, addressing systemic racism requires more than just punitive actions; it necessitates a comprehensive approach that includes training, policy revisions, and a commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where all staff and students feel valued and respected.
The racism scandal serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle against racism in educational institutions and underscores the importance of vigilance and proactive measures to combat bias. The Pretoria High School for Girls must now navigate this crisis with transparency and integrity to restore trust within its community and ensure a safe, equitable learning environment for all its students.
