SADTU KZN statement on the killing of her leader

12 March 2019

SADTU in Kwazulu Natal is shocked by the brutal killing of our leader, Comrade Phakamani Nxumalo who was found dead with gun wounds at his cottage in Impendle. Comrade Nxumalo was a Site Steward at Lugaju High School; a very dedicated and committed leader.

SADTU condemns this brutal killing of teachers and it remains our belief that, if one kills a teacher, the nation suffers the pain as it is robbed of one of its finest minds. Comrade Nxumalo was Mathematics and Technology teacher and these are scarce subjects in the province

SADTU still maintains that issues of safety and security of teachers lies with the entire society. Teachers serve communities and they expect schools to be free of crime, drugs and fear and only members of the society can guarantee that. Teachers want fear-free environments for them to execute their responsibilities – this is what is lacking at the moment. Kwazulu Natal has the highest number of teacher killings and it cannot continue like that if education is indeed a societal matter.

As we mourn the passing of Comrade Nxumalo, we call the law enforcement agencies to investigate these cases because in the absence of clear reasons why these individuals were killed, teachers will continue to live in fear. SADTU sends her condolences to the family, the school and Impendle Branch.

Issued by Nomarashiya Caluza, Provincial Secretary, SADTU KZN, 12 March 2019