Pretoria Girls High: Head faces misconduct charges amid racism probe

A comprehensive investigation into Pretoria High School for Girls has unearthed a troubling scenario, resulting in recommended charges of misconduct against the institution’s most senior figures. An independent report released by Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane has cast a spotlight on the underlying racial tensions at the school, calling for accountability and immediate action.

Mdladlamba Attorneys, commissioned by the Gauteng Department of Education, spearheaded the probe, which was triggered by the creation of a “whites only” WhatsApp group by a dozen learners. Although these students were initially cleared of any wrongdoing, the independent inquiry has recommended a contrary course of action, pointing out that the WhatsApp group and the messages exchanged therein were part of a larger problem rooted in racial insensitivity and a disregard for established school policies.

The most damning conclusions of the report indicate clear incidences of racial discrimination perpetuated by some white teachers and the mishandling of disciplinary procedures. The principle of Pretoria Girls High, alongside the deputy principal and two educators, face misconduct charges for neglecting their duties and failing to uphold the rights of learners as stipulated by the school’s code of conduct and the constitution.

In an incident that betrays not only the professional but also the interpersonal relations within the school environment, the report disclosed that some white teachers failed to greet black colleagues, mistaking them for cleaners. Suspended principal Phillipa Erasmus admitted this issue to investigators, noting the "biggest frustration" she faced in the school environment. The report recommended that, beyond the principal and deputy principal, the estate and HR managers should also face charges of misconduct.

MEC Chiloane assured the public that the recommendations of the report will be implemented with the end goal of fostering social cohesion within the school. This includes counseling for the affected learners and steps to integrate the school into the broader national dialogue.

This investigation into Pretoria Girls High began after a controversial visit to the school by MEC Chiloane in July, following the suspension of learners from the said WhatsApp group. The decision to launch the independent inquiry was catalyzed by public outcry over the internal disciplinary hearing that found the learners not guilty, with many feeling justice was not served.

The independent report carries not just the hope for retribution but also a call to action for both the school and the Gauteng Department of Education. Ensuring equality in learning spaces is now more than ever an unequivocal demand from societies striving to dismantle the vestiges of discrimination.