WCED finds no evidence of racism at Brackenfell High
According to eNCA the department's preliminary report has cleared the school of racism.
CAPE TOWN - The Western Cape Education Department has on Monday cleared Brackenfell High School of racial exclusion claims.
After allegations emerged of a whites-only matric farewell, the department investigated.
The event sparked protests, which on two occasions led to violence.
WATCH: EFF dispersed with stun grenades and water cannons at Brackenfell
Education MEC Debbie Schäfer said the event was indeed private, arranged by some learners' parents who were disappointed when the official matric function was cancelled due to COVID-19 fears.
“The event was arranged at a private venue, a wine farm, on 17 October 2020 and tickets cost R500 each. The evidence is that invitations were circulated to all matric classes and there is no evidence that people were excluded based on their race.”
Schäfer said other issues regarding racial discrimination at the school were being addressed.
“This incident has, however, highlighted other incidents of racial tensions at the school. The school has fully acknowledged that and will be taking numerous steps to address this. In addition to this, the district will also arrange a series of diversity workshops instituted by the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation for all the at the school.”
Former learners have also spoken out over alleged racism at the school.
A Human Rights Commission investigation into the matter is still under way.
WATCH: Scenes from Brackenfell
While the school insists it had no hand in arranging the party, two teachers attended the function.
Meanwhile, the school governing body's bid to interdict the Economic Freedom Fighters from leading any further protests near school premises is being heard at the Western Cape High Court.
