The school governing body (SGB) at Hoërskool Ben Vorster in Tzaneen, Limpopo, says that the an investigation has been opened on the use of racial slur by one of its learners in a TikTok video.
The viral video with more than 1.7-million views on TikTok features the pupil in a live broadcast by a popular social media content creator known as Sonwabile.
He refers to the host, who is wearing a red hat, as an “EFF k****r”, and giggles before his screen goes blank.
The video sparked outrage online. EFF members in Tzaneen marched to the school on Wednesday demanding action.
SGB chairperson Eddie Vorster condemned the pupil’s behaviour, saying it did not reflect the school’s values and culture.
“The governing body strongly condemns the incident. It is in direct contrast with the values of the school and is in no way a reflection on the culture of inclusivity at the school,” Vorster said.
He said the Limpopo education department was aware of the video, adding that a conversation with the pupil and his parents took place this week.
“The governing body emphasises that in the case of minor children, adult roleplayers have a duty to educate. The case will be handled in a responsible manner,” Vorster said.
The school added that irrespective of the outcome of the governing body’s investigation, programmes will be developed to inform learners of the various aspects of the school’s ethical code of conduct.