The Mpumalanga Department of Education has placed the principal and educator of Masizakhe Secondary School in Breyten on precautionary suspension, following allegations that they administered corporal punishment to learners. They are amongst the three who were arrested after the allegations were brought to the attention of the SAPS, and subsequently the department. The third educator is appointed by the School Governing Body (SGB), as such the department will convene a meeting with the to advise them about the course of action to be undertaken.

Masizakhe Secondary School students protested against corporal punishment recently, in light of numerous learners that have allegedly received corporal punishment. It is alleged that the students were reprimanded for refusing to attend extra classes spanning over the course of weekends. The educators have been charged with misconduct, and will have to explain their actions before a departmental disciplinary hearing. They have also been placed under arrest on charges of assault with the intention to cause grievous bodily harm, and have appeared before the Ermelo Magistrate’s Court. The department continues to render counseling to the affected learners.