The Namibian National Teacher’s Union secretary general, Loide Shaanika is concerned about the rising cases and reports of corporal punishment in schools.

Shaanika said this in an interview with Nampa on Monday after her office received 56 corporal punishment cases last year and 18 this year.

Shaanika issued an external memo on Friday to all Nantu members and teachers in general about corporal punishments on learners.

She cautioned all their members and teachers in general to refrain from administering corporal punishment in schools.

Shaanika said corporal punishment is unlawful as it is clearly stated in the Namibian Constitution which is the Supreme Law and other pertinent laws of education like the Child Care and Protection Act and the Namibia Safe School Framework.

She added that Article 8 of the Namibian Constitution states that the infliction of corporal punishment in government schools is unconstitutional and unlawful and carries a burden of the criminal offense which can culminate in a fine or prison sentence.

“It is regarded as a cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment,” said Shaanika.

Shaanika also added that a staff member can be charged under the Public Service Staff Rule and the Labour Act 2007 (Act NO. 11 of 2007) and services terminated if found guilty.

“Besides they can also face criminal charges for a crime of assault or assault to cause grievous bodily harm,” she said.

Furthermore, Shaanika encouraged teachers and all their members to continue using alternatives to corporal punishment.

“Nantu and the Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture encourage you to use alternative measures while we find a lasting solution in the administration of discipline at schools using the provisions of applicable laws and regulations,” she said. 

-Nampa