Classrooms used to be a place for only learning.

Classrooms used to be a place for only learning. Image: iStock

SADTU on the increase in violence at KZN schools

The South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (Sadtu) said it is concerned about safety in schools across the country.

Classrooms used to be a place for only learning.

Classrooms used to be a place for only learning. Image: iStock

According to the South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (SADTU), violent incidents have been happening more frequently at schools since the beginning of the year.

ALSO READ: SADTU concerned about increasing violence at schools

KZN THE MOST AFFECTED PROVINCE – SADTU

According to the SADTU, KwaZulu-Natal is the most affected province by violent incidents.

Schools in KZN the most affected in the country. Image: @NATIONALTEACHE2/Twitter

“In some of these robberies, the robbers came with speed point machines and forced teachers to swipe their cards. A branch chairperson was shot but survived in a similar incident in Sweetwaters, Pietermaritzburg.”

ALSO READ: SADTU concerned about rolling blackouts as matric exams start

TEACHERS ASKING TO BE TRANSFERRED TO OTHER DISTRICTS

Sadtu secretariat officer, Xolani Fakude said in a statement that four pupils were arrested in Pinetown and one was arrested in Pietermaritzburg. In KwaMaphumulo, community members chased away teachers who are not from the area.

“Teachers in the affected schools are requesting to be transferred to other districts. This may lead to the closure of some schools,” Fakude added.

ALSO READ: IFP to join the DA for National Convention

As previously reported, sadtu general secretary Mugwena Maluleke said that at Geluksdal Secondary School in Brakpan, Gauteng, a Grade 10 pupil was stabbed to death, allegedly by fellow pupils.

“At Kagiso Secondary School, Gauteng, a man allegedly entered the school and took some staff members hostage.” He allegedly stabbed and wounded one of the teachers, and was subsequently shot dead by another teacher.

ALSO READ: School violence: Free State Grade 6 pupil STABBED to death

Maluleke added that bullying was allegedly the cause of death of a 17-year-old pupil in KwaZulu-Natal.

“At Sonyongwane High School, southern KwaZulu Natal, a 17-year-old Grade 11 learner committed suicide allegedly because of bullying by her schoolmates. They constantly told her she was ugly and teased her about the shape of her head.”

ALSO READ: School VIOLENCE: Learner stabbed after suspects burst onto premises