GDE must educate teachers and learners on sexual orientation

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Gauteng urges the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) to educate teachers and learners on sexual orientation to ensure that no one is discriminated against or bullied based on their sexual orientation.

This follows the shocking death of a grade 6 learner, Sibusiso Mbatha, from Khehlekile Primary School in Thokoza, Ekurhuleni. The learner committed suicide because a teacher allegedly bullied the boy about his sexual orientation, highlighting that the school has no place for gay tendencies.

The DA condemns any form of discrimination against Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersexual and Asexual (LGBTQIA+) learners.

We believe that schools should maintain conducive learning environment for all learners.

We will monitor the progress of the investigation into this matter to ensure no stone is left unturned. Should it be found that the teacher is guilty, he or she must face the full might of the law.

The DA sends our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and school of Sibusiso Mbatha.

The DA proposes that GDE must implement better measures to train and educate learners and teachers about sexual orientation. Teachers and learners must adhere to the values and principles of respecting one another.

DA Debates Motion On Heritage Day

Speech by: Paul Willemburg MPL

“Are we succeeding in building a cohesive society?”

  • We won’t be successful in uniting our Nation, by continuously playing the race card.
  • We should have respect for religion, ethnicity and race, but we should also have respect for gender; respect for sexual orientation and respect for the disabled. It means tolerance and acceptance and the willingness to learn about the cultures and make a concerted effort to learn at least one of our indigenous languages.
  • Xenophobia still raises its ugly head in our country; as does homophobia. The murder of young lesbians in townships continues.
  • This new evil is rampant and prevalent in every sphere of government, and it’s called Corruption.

The full speech can be obtained here

 

Speech by: Kingsol Chabalala MPL

“In glimpsing backwards, we learn to move forwards”

  • Our country’s rich heritage and diversity is something every South African should be proud of. We were once divided, now united.
  • Reflection is the driver which ensures we move forward, but we are in charge of the GPS that will determine whether or not the direction we move in is favourable and inclusive to all South Africans.
  • It is important that we learn from each other in order to build a strong and united society. We must constantly open ourselves up to learning from each other.
  • If there are lessons, traditional medicines and other practices from other cultures which may improve the way we live and view the world we should take the opportunity to do so.

The full speech can be obtained here

 

Media enquiries:

Paul Willemburg MPL

DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Sport, Recreation, Arts, Culture and Heritage

082 450 0815

 

Kingsol Chabalala MPL

DA Gauteng Spokesperson on Sport, Recreation, Arts, Culture and Heritage

060 558 8299

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