Johannesburg – A violent clash between learners from West Ridge High School and Hoërskool Roodepoort in Gauteng left the principal of Hoërskool Roodepoort stabbed on Monday while trying to defuse the situation.
The conflict reportedly stemmed from a fight last Friday that went viral on social media, escalating when West Ridge learners allegedly attacked Hoërskool Roodepoort, injuring three pupils and damaging property.
The principal, who was hospitalised, has since been discharged.
Six Grade 12 boys from West Ridge will face suspension, with more disciplinary action possible.
MEC CHILOANE CONDEMNS VIOLENCE AFTER HOËRSKOOL ROODEPOORT PRINCIPAL STABBED DURING LEARNER CLASH
The Gauteng MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane, vehemently condemns violent clashes between learners from West Ridge High School and Hoërskool Roodepoort, which left the Principal of… pic.twitter.com/zJ7GwxZKIy
— Gauteng Department of Education (@EducationGP1) August 19, 2025
The Department of Education has condemned the violence, deployed psycho-social support teams, and called on police to conduct unannounced searches to boost safety at both schools.
“It is completely unacceptable that such violence has spilled into our schools, where the safety of both learners and educators has now been compromised. It is even more disturbing that a principal, in her efforts to protect learners, was harmed in the process.
“We will not allow violence and intimidation to take root in our schools. Law enforcement must ensure that perpetrators face the full consequences of their actions.
“Our schools must remain centres of safety, learning, and growth, not battlegrounds,” said the Gauteng MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane.
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C0mpiled by Betha Madhomu
