A community is up in arms, alleging that tribal conflict, bullying, and a principal’s favouritism have created a dangerous environment at Phuthaditjhaba Technical High School. Residents of Sibi village in Matatiele have taken to picketing, demanding the immediate resignation of the school’s principal.
The protest stems from a deep-seated conflict between Sotho and Xhosa pupils, specifically related to initiation practices. Parents and community members accuse the principal of exacerbating the situation through prejudice, discrimination, and a failure to protect vulnerable students.
A father of a girl involved in a recent alarming shooting incident at the school provided a harrowing account. He alleged blatant favouritism, claiming the principal did not handle the matter fairly.
“The learners from [Sibi] are not well treated at the school,” he stated. “So people who are actually enjoying to be at school are those from Maluti.”
The incident involved a boy allegedly shooting at his daughter. The father expressed deep concern for his child’s well-being and education, revealing that the accused boy remains in the same class as the victim.
“The boy who wanted to shoot the girl is still schooling in the same class with this girl,” he said. “I don’t think she will actually make it this year because of what happened to her.”
The Eastern Cape Education Department has confirmed that investigations into the allegations against the principal are ongoing. A department spokesperson provided an update, noting that recent exams had proceeded.
“Pride examination[s] were returned successfully without any disturbances,” the spokesperson said. “Also, the men’s forum went to address the learners… in the school.”
The spokesperson confirmed the specific nature of the probe, stating, “Labour Relations is investigating the allegation that the principal is taking sides and that action will be executed if it is found to be true.”
Despite the department’s assurances, frustrated parents are calling for higher intervention from the education ministry. They have vowed to continue their protests until decisive action is taken against the principal, whom they hold responsible for the ongoing tribal conflict and the safety of their children.
