ON MONDAy an initiation school principal was bust.
Cops and officials stepped in after Kgatle Leshomo (12) died on Saturday at Rooigrond Village near Mahikeng in the North West. His body had sjambok wounds and burns.
Sergeant Kealeboga Molale said: “An inquest docket was opened and will be investigated until the post mortem determines the cause of death.”
Nine initiates were taken to Gelukspan Hospital.
Councillor Anzi Moeti said: “Communities are urged to report all schools in their areas. This will help stop illegal schools from mushrooming.”
MEC Tebogo Modise said: “We are strengthening monitoring of initiation schools. Principals have to get approval from the MEC to start an initiation school. Chance takers face tough consequences if they start illegal schools and are motivated by money, which destroy young lives.
“Parents are requested to choose registered schools to prevent loss of life.”
Anyone who wants to open an initiation school must be approved by the MEC. If it is on tribal land the application form must be signed by a kgosi and have a traditional council stamp. If it is in a municipal area it must be signed by a municipal manager and have the municipality’s stamp.
Any initiate under 18 must have a parent consent form, certified copy of ID or birth certificate and a doctor’s form.
