Leletu Xamba

The Grade 11 and 12 pupils of Siwalili Senior Secondary School in Qawukeni, Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape were denied entry to the school premises by their principal after being told they will infect other learners with Covid-19 if they are not wearing their jerseys.

According to one of the pupils, Principal Soqashe stood by the school’s entrance questioning learners who do not own jerseys. Soqashe allegedly told learners who do not own jerseys to go home and return once they have them.
“I am very troubled because now we are being left behind in class since we had been sent home,” one of the students commented. The student added that they are not allowed to return to school until they own Jerseys and stockings for those that are females.
Nontsapho Nkondlwana, a parent of two students said she will try to collect money and buy the jerseys even though she cannot afford to purchase two jerseys at once. Nkodlwana hopes that the students will be allowed to attend Monday.

“According to the Education Equality Act, every student has a right to learn, no student has to be chased out of school, that’s not according to the law.”, said Clayton Simba, a qualified teacher.

Samba said the principal should have not chased them but inform them if they do not wear the required clothes the following day, he will tell them to go back.

“Although he might have had good intentions, our society is not safe for children who roam around during school hours. Rather warn them and inform their parents first,” Simba added.

Picture: capetownetc.com