Twelve Pretoria Girls High Pupils Suspended Over Racism Allegations

The Pretoria High School for Girls has taken serious action by suspending 12 students over allegations of racism. This decision follows reports that a WhatsApp group, said to consist of white students, was filled with racist comments and micro-aggressions.

According to Steve Mabona, the spokesperson for the Gauteng Department of Education, the school informed the Tshwane South District about a planned protest by students against these racist remarks. The protest was set to take place just a day after the announcement of the suspensions.

Mabona explained that discussions within the WhatsApp group included dismissive comments about complaints raised by black students, which highlighted ongoing issues at the school. Certain remarks even referred to past incidents, like a black hair protest that took place back in 2016.

In response to growing concerns, the school organized an urgent meeting on the day of the expected protest. At this meeting, students were allowed to express their frustrations, which included feelings of neglect from school management regarding their experiences with racism.

The school governing body decided to suspend the students linked to the WhatsApp discussions. Their disciplinary hearings are scheduled for July 30 and 31. Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane mentioned that the situation would be closely monitored to ensure a safe learning environment for all.