Minister wants law to stop caning in schools, homes
Goitsemodimo Kaelo | Wednesday April 23, 2025 06:00
Her statement comes on the backdrop of her utterances about teacher-inflicted caning in schools. The minister was recently captured in a viral video saying a student from Selebi-Phikwe was beaten by five teachers, resulting in the learner being hospitalised. Mokoka’s remarks caused an uproar within some quarters of the society, with teacher unions condemning her remarks saying they bring the teaching profession into disrepute. The unions also challenged the minister to produce proof of such claims. However, in response, she said there is need to enact a law that prohibits corporal punishment on children to safeguard them from all forms of abuse. She stated that the use of corporal punishment undermines a child's inherent right to respect and human dignity. 'We must acknowledge that children live what they learn, and as such, preventing corporal punishment will play a crucial role in preventing violent behaviour later on in life as adults,' Mokoka said.
The minister stated that whilst she acknowledges that corporal punishment is legal in Botswana, there has been numerous calls and recommendations by international bodies for the prohibition of the use of corporal punishment in schools and homes. Therefore, she said it was crucial that her ministry adheres to both national and international legal instruments concerning the protection of rights of children. Whilst the minister hasn't provided proof of her claim that a student was beaten by five teachers, she emphasised that if the child’s account is legitimate, those in authority must listen to the voices of children—whilst also ensuring that due process is followed in addressing their experiences within the school environment and in alternative settings.
However, Botswana Sectors of Educators Trade Union (BOSETU) secretary-general, Tobokani Rari said the minister is continuously missing or ignoring the point. 'The impact and damage of her utterances can't be ignored. She is now talking about child abuse in general terms or in the society whilst we are saying, what she said about the teachers threatens to erode the integrity of the teaching profession. 'It brings mistrust and we will continue to demand that proof or apology. What she said questions the ethos of the teaching profession,' Rari said. Furthermore, he said they intend to seek a meeting with the minister to discuss the matter and other issues relating to the teaching profession. 'There are many issues that we need to discuss, such as challenges that this profession is facing,' Rari added.