Pretoria: An independent investigative report has revealed that the principal and deputy principal of Pretoria High School for Girls should be charged with misconduct following incidents involving a ‘whites only’ WhatsApp group. The Gauteng MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane, disclosed the findings on Monday, outlining systemic issues of racism within the school and suggesting measures for improvement.

According to South African Government News Agency, the investigation was carried out by Mdladlamba Attorneys, who were appointed by the Gauteng Department of Education after allegations of racial insensitivity surfaced among the students. Twelve learners involved in the WhatsApp group were tried by the School Governing Body (SGB) and found not guilty due to the private nature of the platform. However, the report concluded that the school’s leadership mishandled the situation.

Director Charles Mdladlamba highlighted that the principal and deputy principal failed to uphold their responsibilities as per the Scho
ol Policy and the PHSG Learner Code of Conduct. Consequently, they are deemed to have committed misconduct under the Employment Equity Act. The report also indicated a lack of collegial respect among staff, with some white teachers allegedly not greeting black colleagues.

The principal, Phillipa Erasmus, who is currently suspended, acknowledged the tension as her main challenge but cited a lack of cooperation from affected staff in identifying the perpetrators. The report recommended disciplinary action against the principal, deputy principal, and two educators, as well as the estate and HR managers.

Additionally, it advised the Gauteng Department of Education to consider removing the governing body chairman for alleged overreach into the MEC’s powers. The law firm also urged the provision of counseling to all affected learners.

The investigation stemmed from a visit by MEC Chiloane on July 30, following the suspension of 12 white students for alleged racism. Despite being acquitted in a school hearing, di
ssatisfaction with the process led to calls for an independent inquiry. The investigation confirmed selective application of discipline by race and interference by the SGB.

In response, MEC Chiloane emphasized the importance of implementing the report’s recommendations to foster social cohesion and align the school with the National Dialogue initiated by the Government of National Unity. The findings underscore a need for substantial structural changes to address the racial issues at Pretoria High School for Girls.