Learner almost loses hand due to corporal punishment at Harrismith school

Staff reporter

Harrismith – A learner from Lerato Uthando School in Harrismith suffered serious injuries to her right hand after being beaten by two teachers in what the family describes as unlawful corporal punishment.

The learner, Owami Selepe, was allegedly assaulted by teachers Nkosingiphile Tshabalala and Tebello Ntsuba during separate incidents on 05 and 08 August 2025 during school hours.

Owami’s injury was confirmed by health practitioners.

According to documents seen by this publication, the child was beaten with a pipe, resulting in severe swelling, ongoing pain and difficulty using her right hand, which she uses for writing.

WATCH

The family claims the injuries were so serious that the learner had to be medically assessed at Manapo Hospital following an initial consultation at a local clinic. Medical referral documents indicate that the learner complained of continuous pain and swelling to her hand and required further medical attention.

The learner’s mother, Sarah Selepe, has since opened a criminal case under cases number 268/10/2025 and both teachers are out on bail.

In a written complaint, the family states that other learners were present during the incidents and may have witnessed what happened.

The complaint further states that the teachers claimed they were disciplining the learner.

However, the family argues that the use of a pipe amounted to excessive force and violated laws prohibiting corporal punishment in schools.

Sarah Selepe said the incident has left her daughter traumatised and struggling to use her hand, especially during cold weather.

“She struggles to write and attend school comfortably because of the pain,” the mother stated.

Medical prationers confirmed Owami can not use her right hand.

Corporal punishment in South African schools has been outlawed since 1996 under the South African Schools Act, which prohibits any form of physical punishment against learners.

Howard Ndaba, spokesperson for Department of Education and OJ Mkhwanazi, Principal of Lerato Uthando School didn’t respond to our questions.

In other news, STEPUPSANEWS will be in East London to cover Julius Malema v Oscar Mabuyane’s case before heading to Bloemfontein for the second bite of ANC Regional Conference.

Donations to cover ground transport and accommodation can be made through our account below..

Support Independent Journalism

Stories like this matter. Accountability matters. Truth matters.

If you believe in fearless, independent reporting that holds power to account, help us keep going.

Your contribution, even as little as R10 makes a difference.
Choane Group (Pty) Ltd
FNB: 63110371703

If you have news or tips please email news@stepupsanews.co.za or WhatsApp: 068 507 6731

Independent. Unbought. Unfiltered.