South Africans Raise Over R55,000 for Boy Shamed in Viral Video, Teacher Suspended
Cape Town – A heart-wrenching incident at Thembalethu Primary School in the Western Cape, where a Grade 1 learner was seemingly singled out for not being able to afford a pie, has sparked both national outrage and an overwhelming wave of generosity. The incident, captured in a viral video filmed by the class teacher and circulated in a parents’ WhatsApp group, shows the learner as the only child without a pie and cool drink purchased by other pupils.
The video quickly spread, prompting widespread condemnation. Bronagh Hammond, spokesperson for the Western Cape Education Department (WCED), described the footage as “disturbing” and confirmed that a formal investigation has been launched. Hammond stated that the teacher had recorded and shared the video, allegedly to highlight the learner's exclusion from the fundraising initiative. Although the department later established that the teacher had, in fact, purchased the item for the pupil, who received it after the video was filmed, Hammond acknowledged that "the manner in which this was done, however, was totally inappropriate."
The incident led to protests outside the school, and the WCED has since confirmed that the teacher has been temporarily suspended pending the outcome of the investigation by the Labour Relations Directorate. Hammond noted that the teacher has no previous disciplinary record, and the WCED has offered counselling to the learner and their family.
Amid the outrage, Mandisi Tshingana, an influencer with over 855,000 Facebook followers, launched a fundraising drive for the boy and his family. This initiative quickly drew donations from across the country.
In just a short time, the campaign raised over R55,000, transforming a moment of humiliation into a powerful example of how social media can be used for good. "Guys, I wish I were quiet with your money. It seems like you are chasing R60,000 now. God is showing off," Tshingana said regarding the overwhelming support.
The WCED has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that all learners are treated with dignity and care and that appropriate professional conduct is upheld at all times. The outpouring of support highlights the power of community and the potential for social media to drive positive change, even in the face of deeply concerning incidents. The investigation into the teacher's conduct is ongoing.
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