THE HASTY AND UNSUBSTANTIATED ACCUSATIONS AGAINST THE 12 PHSG GIRLS CAUSED IRREPARABLE HARM
By Hendrick Makaneta
Education activist
Education activist Hendrick Makaneta has called on the ANC Youth League and the EFF to apologize to the 12 girls who were falsely accused of racism at the Pretoria High School for Girls.
It should be clear at this point that the 12 learners at Pretoria High School for Girls were falsely accused of racism.
These learners were subjected to unwarranted trauma and public scrutiny. The girls deserve justice and apologies.
The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE), African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL), and Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) should do the right thing by sending apologies to each and every learner and also to the parents of the learners.
The hasty and unsubstantiated accusations leveled against these learners caused irreparable harm, damaging their reputations and emotional well-being.
Therefore, accountability is crucial.
The GDE, ANCYL, and EFF must not only issue unconditional apologies to the affected learners and their families but equally they must retract all statements and social media posts perpetuating false allegations and conduct thorough investigations into the handling of this incident.
What is also important is that the GDE should implement measures to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
False accusations have real consequences. Those responsible must take accountability.
The emotional trauma and distress inflicted upon these learners cannot be overstated. It is crucial that we prioritize their well-being and safety.
We stand in solidarity with the affected learners and therefore advocate for a comprehensive counseling and support services.
The learners should also be protected from further harassment and intimidation.
The GDE, ANCYL, and EFF’s actions will determine their commitment to learner well-being and safety.
We also urge all stakeholders to promote discourse that is based on facts rather and avoid reckless accusations.
We must find a way to foster an inclusive environment for learning and teaching where every learner can thrive.
Only through accountability, empathy, and decisive action can we rebuild trust and social cohesion.