Headmistress of Pretoria High School for Girls suspended amid racial discrimination investigation

The principal of Pretoria High School for Girls has been suspended.

• The principal of Pretoria High School for Girls has been suspended following allegations of racism that rocked the school last week.
• Eight of the twelve students were prefects (student representatives) and have since been removed from their positions.
• In 2016, the school was embroiled in another racism saga when black students accused the school of discriminating against black girls with Afro hair.

The principal of Pretoria High School for Girls has been suspended following allegations of racism that rocked the school last week.

Gauteng Department of Education MEC Matome Chiloane, who briefed the media during a visit to the school on Tuesday, said the school principal would be suspended for three months pending the outcome of the investigation.

This follows the suspension of 12 students last week and allegations by black students that there was a WhatsApp group made up of only white students in which alleged racist microaggressions were expressed against black students.

According to Chiloane, eight of the twelve students were prefects (student representatives) and have since been removed from their positions.

“… they were immediately withdrawn, along with the privileges that come with the office of prefect. The investigation brought to light new evidence that this was not a recent incident.

“There have been some complaints raised by some learners for some time now, since last year 2023.

“One of the informants came forward, and what makes me sad is that she was a victim of assault, but she came forward.”

He said students’ complaints to the principal appeared to have been ignored.

“While we are still dealing with the disciplinary process, we have decided to suspend the principal until we have concluded this matter. We have assigned one of the deputy principals to take over this task in the meantime.”

Chiloane added that the principal is prohibited from having contact with students and staff while living on school premises.

The school board is expected to continue its disciplinary proceedings against the twelve students and submit its report after the department has completed its proceedings.

In addition, a diversity and social cohesion program is regularly conducted for all students and staff.

“We encourage students and teachers not to tire of reporting indiscipline and violations of school rules.

“Parents are also encouraged to report any allegations of abuse to the district so that the district can take necessary action,” Chiloane said.

In 2016, the school was embroiled in another racism saga when black students accused the school of discriminatory policies against black girls’ hair.

The students also accused some teachers of bullying and insulting them because of their Afros.

This led to some teachers and the then headmaster leaving the school.