Parents protest alleged teacher misconduct

AN INVESTIGATION is under way by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education (DoE) into allegations that a teacher sent a grade 7 learner text messages of a sexual nature at Pitlochry Primary School in Westville.

- ZAINUL DAWOOD

Several parents and concerned residents staged a protest outside the school yesterday, calling for the removal of the teacher. Provincial education department spokesperson, Muzi Mahlambi, said the matter was reported to the principal on April 5.

Mahlambi said the circuit manager instituted an investigation immediately.

“The findings and the recommendations are now at the desk of the head of the department to apply his mind and take appropriate actions. We are very disappointed as the department to have such a character teaching our learners. The department frowns at such behaviour,” Mahlambi said.

KwaZulu-Natal Parents Association chairperson, Vee Gani, said the matter was brought to his attention last week.

Gani said the complaint was lodged with supporting evidence, and the education department should have acted immediately to remove or suspend the teacher.

Gani said the department must not place him at another school.