A Grade 10 pupil has been arrested for allegedly st@bbing a teacher during a dispute over late coming at Kgabareng Secondary School in Viljoenskroon.
According to Free State Department of Education spokesperson Howard Ndaba, the incident occurred on Monday, March 10, when the teacher confronted the 21-year-old pupil over his alleged late arrival.
“While the teacher was addressing the matter as part of school procedures, the situation reportedly escalated. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under review to ensure a fair and objective understanding of what transpired,” Ndaba said.
The department announced that psychosocial support services would be deployed to provide counselling and emotional support to both learners and teachers affected by the incident, ensuring their well-being and fostering a safe learning environment.
MEC Mantlhake Maboya has condemned the attack, while the South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (SADTU) also denounced the violence against educators.
Ndaba added that the department would collaborate with law enforcement officials to curb violence and social ills in schools, reinforcing efforts to maintain safe and supportive learning environments.