Richards Bay Secondary School

Public Statement: A Mother’s Call for Accountability in Education Title: Four Suspensions, Zero Transparency — A Richards Bay Mother Demands Answers As a mother, I am deeply disturbed by the repeated suspension of my son from Richards Bay Secondary— four times now — without a single formal investigation report, disciplinary hearing outcome, or written explanation from the school. The latest incident alleges that my son was intoxicated on school grounds. He has no financial means to purchase alcohol, raising serious questions about how this occurred and whether other students or parties were involved. Yet again, the school has failed to provide any formal findings or safeguard protocols. This is not just about my son. It’s about every child’s right to fair treatment and every parent’s right to transparency. The school’s silence is not just negligent — it’s a violation of Section 29(1)(a) of the South African Constitution, which guarantees every child the right to a basic education, including protection from arbitrary disciplinary action. I have formally requested documentation and accountability. The principal has refused. I have escalated this matter to the Department of Education, the School Governing Body, and legal counsel. I will not be silenced. I will not allow institutional nonchalance to undermine my child’s dignity or any other learner’s right to fair process. This is a call to action — for parents, educators, and officials to demand better. Our children deserve safe, transparent, and accountable schools. Naomi Pillay Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal