Five pupils stabbed in attack at Chatsworth school, Education Department urges parents not to incite violence
Education MEC Sipho Hlomuka
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The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education has condemned violent incidents at Glenover Secondary School in Chatsworth where a minor altercation on the football field led to a secondary incident in which five pupils were stabbed.
Describing the incident, the department said what began as a minor altercation on the soccer field between two learners escalated into a broader conflict with racial undertones.
The department said the school acted swiftly, suspending the four learners directly involved in the initial incident. However, after school hours, a group consisting of a parent and former learners - none of whom were involved in the initial incident - violently confronted and assaulted some learners. Five pupils were stabbed.
The department said the school alerted both the South African Police Service (SAPS) and its private security provider.
“We are gravely concerned that this violence was racially motivated and aggravated by adults who should be setting an example of tolerance, peace, and restraint. Glenover Secondary School condemns in the strongest terms all forms of racial violence, discrimination, and conduct that incites division.
“In addition, unfounded accusations have been levelled against the school’s management and educators, despite their immediate and decisive response to de-escalate the situation,” the statement said.
The department urged parents to help restore peace and stability especially as Grade 12 learners are continuing with intensive trial examination preparation, while Grades 8 to 11 are preparing for their third-term assessments.
“Any disruption to teaching and learning will compromise the education and future of your children. We therefore ask all parents: do not take matters into your own hands, do not incite violence, and do not endanger your child. Allow the school and the authorities to manage the situation. Your support is more important now than ever. Together, let us ensure the safety, well-being, and future of every learner at Glenover Secondary School.”
KwaZulu-Natal Education MEC Sipho Hlomuka said: “As the Department of Education, we are appalled by the criminal behaviour of certain community members alleged to be fuelling violence at Glenover Secondary School. We will stand firmly with the principal, management team, school governing body, and SAPS to ensure that this racial conflict is swiftly resolved and that schools remain safe spaces for teaching and learning.”