The Inkatha Freedom Party calls on all parents to avoid being tempted into accepting bribes from teachers in order to cover up for their wrong doings after a parent at eMnambithi was offered money to remain silent about the abuse of learners.
“We urge all parents to follow the example a parent who refused a R60 000 bribe from Siphendukile Primary School principal in Ekuvukeni in eMnambithi where her children are being victimised by teachers. If all parents can adopt such an ethical stance, we will be able to eradicate the scourge of bribes by teachers in schools,” said Mrs Thembeni Madlopha-Mthethwa, IFP KZN Provincial Spokesperson on Education.
“The education sector is affected by corruption in our country today. Ultimately, therefore, if we want to tackle corruption we will have to encourage in people the principles of integrity and dedication to truth. Teachers, especially the primary school teachers who interact with learners at a very young age are in an important position to inculcate values. The question is how many of our teachers are themselves honest and committed to teaching with dedication? How many of them can be good role models? Allowing these problems to persist is akin to surrendering our country to corruption and all forms of abuse, and we cannot afford to do that. Parents must stand up for the rights of their children and not sell them out by giving in to the temptation of accepting payment for their silence,” continued Mrs Madlopha-Mthethwa.
“Furthermore our concern is also extended to the teachers who are continuing to use corporal punishment at schools after a Grade 4 learner at Kingsburgh Primary in Manzimtoti suffered a broken arm after she was allegedly beaten by a teacher. There is a need to enforce the law to address the issue of corporal punishment in schools. This will send a strong signal to teachers who resort to physically or emotionally torturing children. Teachers who are found guilty of abusing learners must face the full might of the law,” concluded Mrs Madlopha-Mthethwa.
Issued by:
Mrs Madlopha-Mthethwa
IFP KZN Provincial Spokesperson on Education
071 884 3844
