The Pulamadiboho Primary School teacher was arrested on Wednesday (13/5) following allegations of corporal punishment involving a Grade 3 learner. The 56-year-old was released the same day on warning or on her own recognisance.

Being released on own recognisance, formally known as being released on a warning under Section 72 of the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977, means the accused is allowed to go home without paying any bail money. It indicates that the police or a prosecutor deemed the offense minor and the individual trustworthy enough to return for their court date

The department strongly condemned all forms of violence against learners, reiterating that corporal punishment remains illegal in South African schools.

“The learner, 8, was allegedly assaulted at the school in Intabazwe on Tuesday,” said Free State police spokesperson Mmako Mophiring. “She claims the teacher slapped her on the back of the head with an open hand.

“The suspect in question is expected to appear in the Harrismith Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday next week, facing the charge of common assault.”

The department said last week that it had taken note of the teacher’s arrest after she allegedly administered corporal punishment to a learner. “The teacher is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of law,” said Free State education spokesperson Howard Ndaba.

“The teacher did not appear in court last week because she is on sick leave from Thursday to Friday (22/5). We urge the public to refrain from circulating videos depicting the teacher being escorted by police.

“The department remains committed to ensuring that schools are safe and nurturing environments where children are protected from harm.

“We cannot comment further while the matter is under investigation and before the courts to avoid prejudicing due process.”

The department has launched its own investigation into the incident to determine appropriate action, including the possibility of instituting internal disciplinary proceedings in line with departmental policy and the Employment of Educators Act.

Minister of basic education Siviwe Gwarube has repeatedly emphasised that corporal punishment is unconstitutional and violates a child’s rights to dignity, freedom, and security.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame sm

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