HRC probes racism allegations at SA school

The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) on Friday said its investigation into racism allegations made by pupils at Cornwall Hill College in Pretoria has commenced, reported Xinhua.

"The SAHRC will be conducting further investigations into the school's environment and culture," Commission spokesperson Gushwell Brooks said.

Pupils from the school staged a peaceful march last Monday with parents, alleging that they were told that their African hair was not good enough and that they should straighten it.

As part of this investigation, pupils, staff and management would be interviewed about their experiences and the culture of the school.

Reserve Bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago joined a group of parents who protested at the school, calling for transformation. His child attends the school.

It's not the first time that pupils have protested racist school policies.

In 2016, the issue made headlines across the globe as pupils forced Pretoria Girls High school to change its racist hair policies. Pupils said that teachers berated and called them names for wearing their hair in its natural state.