This comes after the Head of the Northern Cape Department of Education, Moira Marais, expressed her shock after one of the teachers was held hostage by gang members in one of the classes. She says some learners from Greenpoint High School are part of gangs in the community and they have brought their issues to the school. 

Marais says the situation was very rough, leading to the school being closed for a day. She says officials from Northern Cape Education, together with the police, went to the school and brought the situation under control.

Marais adds that the department has sent the education support team to assist with counselling of learners and educators. She also adds that the educator that was held hostage went to see a psychologist. Marais further said that the problem did not emanate from school but it rather is a reflection of what is already taking place in the community.  

She pleaded with the community to assist the department in dealing with violence in schools so that they become a safe environment for learners. She concludes that 30 learners who were involved in this gang violence were suspended and will be taken through disciplinary procedures.

OFM News