Knysna High School has launched an investigation after a video showing a pupil using the K-word during a school event spread on social media.
Knysna High School investigates racist incident
The K-word is a racial slur that was used during apartheid to insult and degrade black South Africans. It is considered extremely offensive and racist in South Africa today.
In the clip, pupils are seen cheering in the school hall. The camera then turns to a female pupil who shakes her head, says the slur, then giggles and covers her mouth. The learner filming, who was standing next to her, also laughs.
According to school principal Mark Mosdell, the matter has been formally referred to disciplinary procedures. In a letter to parents, he explained how the process works.
“Once the school becomes aware of a disciplinary issue, an investigation is launched into the misconduct. Meetings, interviews and statements from all parties are part of this process. The investigator will then make a report to the principal, who will refer the case to the school governing body (SGB) to organise a disciplinary hearing,” Mosdell wrote.
He said disciplinary hearings are not only about punishment but also about teaching accountability. Outcomes can include both corrective action and community-based programmes.
“The aim is to assist learners in making amends for their actions and being educated about both their actions and how to make better decisions,” Mosdell added.
The school has stated it does not tolerate racist behaviour and is working with the Western Cape Education Department to address the matter. Principal Mosdell said the school “strongly condemns all acts of racism” and reminded pupils to stay focused on their academic responsibilities.
He also urged learners not to engage in harmful social media conversations about the incident, describing online debates as “toxic” and unhelpful.
The Western Cape Congress of South African Students (COSAS) condemned what it called an “appalling racist incident.” The group said the act was “not merely an isolated outburst but a direct assault on the dignity, humanity and sense of belonging of the affected learners.”
COSAS also said schools should go beyond monthly values programmes, calling for long-term changes to education policies.
“Respect for the dignity of others must not be treated as a fleeting theme. It should be enshrined as a standing, continuous and non-negotiable pillar of every school’s ethos,” the organisation said.
The student body has also offered to conduct workshops and awareness campaigns to help schools tackle racism and encourage inclusive dialogue among pupils.
The video can be watched below:
