Gauteng Education MEC Lebogang Maile has raised serious concerns about conditions at Badirile Secondary School in Khutsong, describing the learning environment as one that has deteriorated into disorder.
Maile, accompanied by law enforcement officials, conducted a surprise search-and-seizure operation at the school on Tuesday morning as authorities moved to address growing concerns about learner safety and discipline.
Police confiscated knives, scissors, vapes, a fork and drugs from pupils during the operation.
Authorities said 10 serious cases involving learners at the school have been reported since the beginning of the year.
The situation came under increased scrutiny following the fatal stabbing of a 16-year-old Grade 9 learner, who was allegedly killed by another pupil during a break in March.
Maile said an inspection of learners’ exercise books raised further concerns about absenteeism and a lack of academic engagement.
He alleged that some learners were attending school primarily to access the feeding scheme, while others were allegedly intimidating fellow pupils and educators.
“They come to school, some of them, just to eat the food. They come to school to terrorise other learners and educators,” Maile said.
The MEC said concerns about bullying at the school had also emerged on social media the previous week, with community members calling for urgent intervention.
He said the fatal stabbing earlier this year highlighted the seriousness of the problems facing the school.
Maile blamed what he described as widespread “ill-discipline” for many of the challenges.
He claimed some learners who had been suspended were allegedly ignoring disciplinary measures, with some even tearing up suspension letters issued by teachers.
“We can’t have such in our schools. We can’t have anarchy,” Maile said.
He also raised concerns about learners who allegedly remained on school premises despite failing to attend classes.
Maile said one learner’s exercise books contained little work because the pupil was allegedly not attending lessons, arguing that learners who do not attend classes should not be allowed to remain on school grounds without appropriate intervention.
However, the MEC said disciplinary concerns were not limited to learners.
He claimed allegations had been made against five educators who were allegedly failing to report for duty, not teaching and visiting taverns during school hours.
Maile said the educators would face disciplinary proceedings in accordance with labour regulations if the allegations were substantiated.
He added that the same educators had previously been the subject of a formal petition submitted by their colleagues.
As part of efforts to restore stability at the school, Maile said he had instructed the district director to meet with all educators and clearly communicate expectations around discipline and professional conduct.
An acting principal will also be appointed to strengthen management and enforce discipline.
“We want to make sure that in the coming weeks there is order here,” Maile said.
The department is expected to continue monitoring the school as measures are implemented to improve safety, attendance, discipline and teaching and learning.