Download PDFMasakhane Primary School, located in Seven Fountains near Makhanda, has come under fire after its principal was accused of abusing learners and a Grade R teacher. Members of the community, together with the Unemployed People’s Movement (UPM), have rallied under the call “enough is enough”, demanding that the principal be removed.
According to community member Mrs Likhona Nkewana (45), the allegations against Principal Thandeka Ngqezana surfaced on 16 June 2025. Nkewana claims that the principal was seen engaging in disturbing behaviour in the school storeroom, where food meant for learners is kept. She further alleged that the principal would ask children to dispose of a bucket containing her stool, reportedly a daily occurrence.
Following these reports, the community contacted the Department of Education to intervene and address their concerns. Department representative Mr Mayise visited the school and held a meeting, announcing that an investigation team would be established to look into the allegations. Two members of the community were appointed to serve on the investigative team. He also indicated that social workers would be sent to support the affected learners and their families. However, after Mayise went on annual leave, community members say no further action was taken.
On 22 July 2025, the frustrated community gathered once again and blocked the school gate to prevent the principal from entering the premises. The Department of Education reportedly called the police from Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) to escort her into the school.
Mr Mahlubandile Kuhlani, Chairperson of the Unemployed People’s Movement (UPM), said the organisation was approached by residents of Seven Fountains to assist with the matter. “The community does not want the principal at the school, and the Department of Education has done nothing. They promised to return within ten days but never did,” he said.
Kuhlani explained that UPM’s role is to support communities in such struggles. “We called the department again, and they eventually came, but the process was not easy. They said they have to follow procedure and are waiting for a response from the director,” he added.
After further discussions, the department reportedly agreed that the principal would stay at home pending the outcome of the investigation. The community welcomed this decision, and a criminal case has since been opened at SAPS. Residents say they will await the final outcome.
South Africa, let us come together to fight and stop bullying in our schools.
This article was submitted on 24 July 2025. You may republish it, so long as you credit the author and Karibu! Online (www.karibu.org.za), and do not alter the text. Please include a link back to the original article.
