The Kavango West education directorate has launched an investigation into an incident at Katjinakatji Senior Secondary School, where six pupils were allegedly injured while crawling on the ground as a form of punishment.
Education director Pontianus Musore has confirmed that an investigator from the regional office was appointed to investigate the incident on Monday.
Musore states that the incident falls under corporal punishment as defined by law, which includes causing physical or psychological harm to pupils. He emphasises that such actions are chargeable offences under the Education Act.
“This is a serious issue which the ministry is addressing. We will make our recommendations in line with the law and allow the legal process to take its course,” Musore says.
He, however, declines to speculate on the possible outcome for the involved teacher.
The incident, which occurred last week during what was meant to be a drama rehearsal, reportedly resulted in six out of 10 pupils who were punished, sustaining injuries to their knees.
The teacher allegedly misinterpreted the students’ actions during the class as misbehaviour and punished them by making them crawl on the ground for nearly 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, the Namibia National Students Organisation (Nanso) also announced on Monday that it is launching its own investigation.
Nanso regional chairperson for Kavango West, Haiyambo Jakko, echoed the director of education’s view, stating that corporal punishment was evident in this case and calling for the teacher to be dealt with according to the law.
“We are deeply unhappy and concerned about the incident at Katjinakatji. We are disappointed by what has happened,” he said.
Jakko stated that Nanso is actively monitoring the situation. Once their internal review is complete, they will escalate the matter to the regional directorate of education for further action.
Corporal punishment is prohibited in schools in Namibia due to a Supreme Court ruling that it violates the constitutional right to human dignity.
– Nampa
In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.
The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
