A video circulating online shows a disturbing altercation between a teacher and two pupils at Glenvista High School, Johannesburg.
In the footage, a Grade 9 pupil appears to attempt to strike the teacher, who retaliates by throwing a chair at the pupil. Another student hurls a desk at the teacher, escalating the chaos.
WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW:
Teacher-Pupil Altercation Sparks Outrage at #Glenvista High School pic.twitter.com/PHgFor99hF
— Mzansi Extreme (@Mzansi_Extreme) May 3, 2024
This incident has prompted action from education authorities, with officials from the Gauteng Department of Education meeting the school’s principal to address the situation. It comes amidst growing concerns about discipline issues and student behavior within the school community.
Parents and school officials have voiced worries about various issues, including student discipline, the abuse of cellphones, and instances of cyberbullying. These concerns were highlighted in a recent message from the school to parents regarding the misuse of social media platforms and bullying behavior among students.
In response to the incident, Basil Manuel, representing the National Professional Teachers’ Organisation of SA (Naptosa), expressed regret over the teacher’s response, urging educators to remain calm and defuse such situations. Mary Metcalfe, a professor at the University of Johannesburg, called for a thorough investigation into the incident to ensure appropriate action is taken.
Comments from a National Association of School Governing Bodies (NASGB) WhatsApp group underscored the need for disciplinary measures and support for educators facing such challenges. However, as of now, the South African Council for Educators (SACE) has not provided any comment on the matter.
Media queries have been directed to the Gauteng education department for further information. This incident follows previous unrest at Glenvista High School in 2021 when students engaged in a boycott of exams, resulting in damage to school property.
