GDE set to launch independent investigation into PHSG racism claims
A recent probe at the school exonerated twelve pupils accused of being part of a 'whites only' WhatsApp group peddling bullying and misconduct.
Pretoria High School for Girls. Picture: Pretoria High School for Girls/Facebook
JOHANNESBURG - The Gauteng Department of Education says it will leave no stone unturned to get to the bottom of persistent claims of racism at the Pretoria High School for Girls.
The department is set to launch an independent investigation into claims of racism at the school.
A recent probe at the school exonerated twelve pupils accused of being part of a "whites only" WhatsApp group peddling bullying and misconduct.
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However, Gauteng Education spokesperson Steve Mabona said previous accusations at the school warranted a thorough investigation into its culture.
But he said the fresh probe would not include the 12 learners cleared by the school governing body.
"This investigative body will then be looking at the school in its entirety, meaning it will interact with everyone," said Mabona.
Mabona said a diversity programme was implemented when the school was embroiled in another racism scandal in 2016.
"We need people to understand we are diverse, and we must be tolerant of each other, and that's why we felt we need to implement that programme - but this does not mean we will not go ahead with this new investigation," he said.