The principal of Osborn Senior Secondary School in Mount Frere, Alfred Nzo District, has been suspended following allegations that he beat a learner in the hand. The Eastern Cape Department of Education confirmed the incident, which reportedly stemmed from the learner’s inability to pay for a school trip.
A disturbing image showing the injured palm of the learner went viral on social media on July 25, 2025, accompanied by claims of corporal punishment administered by staff at the school.
The Department of Education has stated that it takes these allegations very seriously. Immediate action was taken the day after the image surfaced, including a meeting with the school’s management.
The department’s preliminary findings confirmed that the incident occurred on school grounds, that the learner involved is a registered Grade 12 student, and that corporal punishment is still being practiced at the school—despite being outlawed. It was further confirmed that the learner was allegedly assaulted for not being able to pay for a Grade 12 trip.
The Department emphasized its commitment to ensuring that schools provide a safe and nurturing environment for all learners.
It has pledged to take all necessary steps to address the incident and to prevent similar occurrences in the future
