A WHITE goat and a cow were slaughtered to remove the ‘bad cloud’ at Qantayi High School in Port Durnford on Sunday.
The cleansing ceremony called ‘ukushweleza’ (asking for forgiveness) was conducted following the shocking classroom shooting which resulted in the tragic death of two Grade 12 pupils last month.
During an emotional meeting last week, parents agreed that the ceremony would ensure safety for their children and end the sad history of the school.
Parents said it was done to ensure no ‘evil’ enters the school premises.
‘Horrifying incidents keep happening in the school, that’s why it was extremely important to cleanse the area,’ they said.
‘When someone dies in a certain place, that spot needs to be cleansed. It is done to prevent bad spirits from lingering. It is part of our Zulu custom,’ said Nonhlanhla Sithole.
Parents hoped the ritual would improve the school and children’s lives.
According to the School Governing Body (SGB) Deputy Chairperson, Zakheleni Dlamini, the traditional ceremony was to implore ancestors and God to look after the school.
‘Our chief spearheaded the whole ceremony in order for learning to continue without disturbance. The school was named after his great grandfather, and he was heartbroken after the shocking incident,’ said Dlamini.
Chief Mkhwanazi donated the goat and cow towards the ceremony.
Education department response
uThungulu Department of Education Director, David Chonco said they supported the community’s decision, in order to restore peace at the school.
‘Parents and the tribal authority decided it was the right route to follow, and as department officials we cannot stop them. What we believe is not important but what they think would help them in this situation is of extreme importance,’ said Chonco.
Learning was reported back to normal, and five other educators reported for duty this week.
