SADTU condemns murder of Kraaifontein school principal

The South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU) in the Western Cape has expressed deep concern over escalating school violence, stating that it reflects the broader challenges faced by communities.

This comes in the wake of two fatal shootings in Kraaifontein on Thursday, including the tragic murder of Jeffrey Sigudla, the 54-year-old principal of Ekuthuleni Primary School.

Principal Murdered Outside School

Sigudla was shot and killed while sitting in his car outside Ekuthuleni Primary School. The incident sent shockwaves through the community and drew widespread condemnation. Schools, which are meant to serve as safe spaces for learning and growth, have increasingly become sites of violence, raising alarm among educators and parents alike.

SADTU Provincial Secretary Sibongile Kwazi decried the incident, emphasizing the need for greater protection of educators.

“Schools are supposed to be safe havens, not crime scenes,” Kwazi said. “We have always called for security guards at schools. But in my experience, most of these incidents are targeted at specific individuals.”

Second Murder Outside Fanie Theron Primary

Shortly after the shooting at Ekuthuleni Primary, a second fatal incident occurred near Fanie Theron Primary School in Windsor Park, Kraaifontein.

According to Western Cape police spokesperson Frederick van Wyk, a 41-year-old man was killed while leaving an educational institution. The victim, driving a white Hyundai, was approached by an unidentified suspect who fired multiple gunshots at the vehicle.

Van Wyk confirmed that police are investigating the motives behind both murders and have urged anyone with information to come forward.

SADTU’s Call for Action

SADTU has strongly condemned the violence and reiterated its demand for improved safety measures in schools. The union has long advocated for the deployment of security guards to protect school premises.

While the union acknowledges that many incidents are targeted, it highlights the broader issue of unchecked violence spilling into schools from surrounding communities.

“This is not just a school issue; it reflects the state of our communities,” Kwazi said. “Educators cannot perform their duties under such conditions, and learners are also deeply affected by this violence.”

Violence in Schools: A Growing Concern

The murders in Kraaifontein are part of a worrying trend of violence in and around South African schools. Educators and learners are increasingly vulnerable to crime, with incidents ranging from armed robberies to targeted attacks.

In 2023, SADTU released a report highlighting the rise in violent incidents in schools across the country, particularly in high-crime areas. The report called for a multi-stakeholder approach, involving law enforcement, school governing bodies, and community organizations, to address the crisis.

Community Impact

The deaths of Sigudla and the second victim have left the Kraaifontein community reeling. Both incidents have sparked fears for the safety of educators, parents, and learners. Many residents feel that the violence reflects a broader failure to address crime and social instability in the area.

Police Investigations

Authorities have launched investigations into both murders. However, no arrests have been made so far. Van Wyk urged community members with information to come forward, emphasizing the importance of cooperation in solving these cases.

“Anyone with information about these murders is urged to contact the police or use the Crime Stop line at 08600 10111. Information can also be shared anonymously via the MySAPS app,” Van Wyk said.

A Call for Unity

As the investigations continue, SADTU has called for solidarity among educators, parents, and community members to tackle the root causes of school violence. Kwazi emphasized the need for collective action to ensure schools remain sanctuaries of learning rather than sites of tragedy.

“These incidents highlight the urgent need for intervention. Educators are vital to shaping our future, and their safety cannot be compromised,” she said.

The tragic events in Kraaifontein serve as a grim reminder of the urgent need to address violence in South African communities, particularly its spillover into schools, which should be places of hope and education.