Tensions flare as school violence leads to principal stabbing

Zuko Komisa

Gauteng’s Education MEC has condemned violent clashes between two high schools in Johannesburg, which saw a principal stabbed and three pupils seriously injured.
The violence, reportedly sparked by a social media feud, led to a group of West Ridge High School students attacking Hoërskool Roodepoort.
Six pupils have been suspended as part of an ongoing investigation, and law enforcement is now involved to ensure safety.

A series of violent confrontations between students from West Ridge High School and Hoërskool Roodepoort has drawn sharp condemnation from Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane, following an incident where the Roodepoort principal was stabbed.

The conflict, which reportedly started as an online altercation on Friday, escalated significantly on Monday when a group of West Ridge students went to Hoërskool Roodepoort.

The group, allegedly seeking retaliation, attacked students and threw stones at cars. During the chaos, the principal of Hoërskool Roodepoort was stabbed while attempting to de-escalate the situation. Three students from the school were also seriously injured and are now receiving medical attention.

In response, six male Grade 12 students from West Ridge High School have been suspended for seven days while they await a disciplinary hearing. The department has stated that further suspensions may follow as investigations continue.

MEC Chiloane expressed his dismay, stating that such violence is “completely unacceptable” and that schools should be places of safety, not “battlegrounds.”

He emphasised the importance of protecting both students and educators, calling the attack on the principal “disturbing.”

To address the aftermath, the Department of Education’s psychosocial support and employee wellness teams are being dispatched to both schools. The department has also partnered with the Roodepoort police, who will conduct unannounced search-and-seizure operations to enhance security.

Chiloane concluded by vowing that violence and intimidation would not be tolerated, and called on law enforcement to ensure that those responsible are held fully accountable.