Western Cape Education Department addresses viral school stabbing video
A Video showing a teacher stabbing a learner in a classroom went viral, with some saying the incident happened at Sea Point High, but it later emerged the video is an old one and that the incident happened in Bolivia.
The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) had to doused fires after it had to respond to a flood of enquiries regarding the video with several schools named as places where the incident could have taken place. It clarified that the video is fake and that the video came from Bolivia.
In the very horrific video, a teacher can be seen standing over a learner while jabbing what looks like a knife into the child.
Other learners can be heard screaming, while the teacher carries on with this brutal act. The ordeal carries on for over 30 seconds before the video is cut.
Rumours have started making its rounds, that the involved school is Sea Point High School and that the incident happened on Monday.
However the school rubbished the rumour and explained in a circular sent out on Thursday, that the video circulating is being incorrectly associated with Sea Point High.
“We would like to assure you that this incident did not take place at our school.
“Sea Point High School remains committed to fostering a safe, secure, and respectful environment for all learners.”
The school also urged parents and guardians to refrain from sharing the video, to avoid unnecessary confusion or distress.
Kerry Mauchline, spokesperson for the WCED, further emphasized that the video has no connection to any schools in the region.
"It is very unfortunate that a video has recently been doing the rounds on social media, showing a tragic stabbing incident at a school in Bolivia.
“This has been shared indiscriminately, alleging that the incident occurred at various schools in the Western Cape," Mauchline said.
"This has understandably caused concern for parents at these schools."
The WCED is urging the public to exercise caution and refrain from spreading unverified information.
"We encourage the public not to share information about schools that has not been verified and does not come from official sources," Mauchline added.
She stressed the importance of trusting official channels for accurate information and updates regarding incidents involving schools.
In addition, the department is calling for greater responsibility when it comes to sharing sensitive content on social media.
"We also encourage the public, as a general principle, not to share videos of violent incidents, out of respect for the victims involved," Mauchline said.
“Sharing such videos can be distressing and disrespectful to those affected, and it is crucial to keep the dignity of individuals involved in mind.”
For those who come across videos or posts on social media that raise concerns, the WCED advises taking the appropriate steps.
"If you are concerned about an incident on social media, the best course of action is to report it to law enforcement and the Department," Mauchline added.
“By doing so, the public can help ensure that the matter is addressed properly, without causing unnecessary panic or harm.
“The Western Cape Education Department remains committed to providing safe and supportive learning environments for all students and encourages everyone to be vigilant and responsible when it comes to sharing information online.”