The IFP calls on the KZN Provincial MECs of Education and Community Safety, Peggy Nkonyeni and Willies Mchunu to call an urgent Summit on violence at schools after a learner was stabbed to death at Khulumeluzulu High School at Mkhwakhweni area,uPhongolo, in Northern KwaZulu-Natal.
“This sort of incident just leaves a hole in your soul. You can’t find words to explain such a tragedy. It is about where the hatred and disrespect for human life comes from. Where are our parents, where our community leaders and what are we doing to make sure that our children are safe at schools,” said IFP Leader in the KZN Legislature, Mr Blesed Gwala, MPL.
“This summit must develop workable responses to the current problems faced in schools, identify underlying causes of violence and anti-social behaviour and work out a staffing formula to ensure that all schools have basic security staff. We must devise proper guidelines that will influence good behaviour at schools – eg conflict management, counselling, human rights education, sports and cultural activities. The Department of Education must clarify guidelines on random searching and drugs testing and the role of educators,” continued Mr Gwala.
“Violence cannot be tolerated and can never be condoned. Provincial government must make the area of uPhongolo safer so that children will have a normal childhood and it is not stolen from them by violence. We further reiterate our call for metal detectors, CCTV cameras and security personnel to be available at all schools for the safety of students, staff and school personnel as well as to deter students and visitors from bringing weapons into schools,” concluded Mr Gwala.
The IFP would like to send its deepest condolences to the family of Mbuyiseni Ntshangase and wish the other learner who is in hospital a speedy recovery.
Issued by: IFP Leader in the KZN Legislature, Mr Blessed Gwala, 078 290 5842
Media enquiries:
Mr Phendulani Biyase, IFP KZN Legislature Media Liaison Officer, 073 024 5675
