Parents Demand Action Amid Allegations of Prejudice at Matatiele School

Matatiele, Eastern Cape – Rising tensions at Phuthaditjhaba Technical High School have sparked protests from parents and community members, following allegations that the school principal has shown favoritism and prejudice toward certain learners. Claims suggest that pupils who attended initiation schools are receiving preferential treatment, while others feel marginalized or are being forced to drop out.

Community Protests and Calls for Action

On Monday, parents and local residents gathered outside the school, demanding the resignation of the principal and immediate intervention from education authorities. Parents allege that the principal, reportedly of Sotho origin, favors learners who have undergone initiation, while pupils from other backgrounds—particularly those aligned with the AmaBhaca community—face ongoing discrimination.

“The principal is protecting certain learners while others are bullied and forced out of school,” said one concerned parent and member of the school governing body.

Tribal Tensions and Violence

The dispute has highlighted cultural and tribal divisions within the school, with learners reportedly divided into factions based on initiation practices. This tension has occasionally spilled beyond school grounds. In late August, a violent incident resulted in the deaths of two people, allegedly linked to a learner from the Sotho group. Police investigations, however, suggest that the shooting was not directly connected to the ongoing school dispute.

Department of Education Investigates

The Eastern Cape Department of Education confirmed that a labor investigation into the principal’s conduct is underway. Police are also involved due to the violent incident outside the school premises. Meanwhile, parents report that dozens of learners have stopped attending classes, fearing for their safety, with some families seeking placement in other schools.

Calls for Accountability and Fair Treatment

Protesters insist that the principal be removed and that the learner allegedly involved in the shooting face criminal consequences. Community leaders are calling for authorities to ensure that schools remain safe, inclusive, and free from discrimination.

The situation at Phuthaditjhaba Technical High School underscores the challenges of balancing cultural practices and maintaining equality in education spaces, highlighting the urgent need for impartial leadership and protection of all learners.