By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in Gauteng has reacted angrily to a racist incident that happened at Curro Academy Protea Glen Primary School in Soweto.
Learner Nonkululeko Gwatyu alleges that the school’s executive head Shanette Tiquin called her a monkey on the school’s premises in Protea in June.
EFF Gauteng chairperson Nkululeko Dunga said the political party has been “infuriated” by the incident.
“The Economic Freedom Fighters in Gauteng is infuriated by the racist actions of the Curro Academy Protea Glen Primary School executive head, Shanette Tiquin. The EFF in Gauteng calls for her immediate removal and that she officially be criminally charged with hate speech, “said Dunga.
Gwatyu (29) has since filed a formal complaint against Tiquin, who is in her 50s.
Spokesperson for Curro Holdings Fergus Sampson says an investigation into the incident is underway.
“Across all its schools, Curro Holdings reiterates that it is completely committed to unity, racial cohesion, and dignity for all. We do not condone any form of discrimination, bullying, intolerance, hate speech, or derogatory language that affects human dignity. Curro Holdings has taken these allegations very seriously.”
Sampson says Curro Holding has also appointed an external mediator to assist.
“While we have arranged extra security at the school for the safety of all staff, teachers and learners, we most urgently ask for the matter to be resolved in peace and with due process of fairness, without violence or the threat of violence of any kind. We are dealing with human beings and children.”
Curro has been in the news multiple times amid alleged racism.
Gauteng Department of Education spokesperson Steve Mabona said the department could not comment on the issue before visiting the school.