Pretoria – Government has condemned the behaviour by certain schools, where the rights of children were violated because of their religious beliefs.
This follows a media report about a Rastafarian learner at a Free State school, who was taken out of class by the school principal because of her dreadlocks.
Acting Cabinet spokesperson Phumla Williams said government recognised the rights of children and had put numerous measures in place to ensure the protection and respect of children’s rights.
“South Africa is a democratic country with a diverse population of different religious and ethnic groups. Its citizens are responsible to ensure that we continue to develop a unity of purpose and spirit that recognises and celebrates our diversity,” Williams said.
The South African Schools Act (Act 94 of 1996) upholds the constitutional rights of all citizens to freedom from unfair discrimination on any grounds whatsoever, including religion, in public education institutions.
Williams reminded parents, learners and educators that the South African Constitution enshrined the values of citizenship, human rights, equality, and freedom from discrimination, amongst others.
“We should play our roles in upholding the rights of our children. Society needs to be proactive in nurturing a generation of quality leaders. Let us lead by example and work together to protect the rights of our future leaders.”
Communities are urged to stand up and protect children’s rights and report any act of child abuse to their nearest police station or contact organisations such as Child Line on 0800 055 555. – SAnews.gov.za
