Soweto pupils say 'don't spare the rod, more discipline would help to reduce the gangsterism and substance abuse problems that plague many schools in the township.' We asked our Facebook fans what they thought about introducing the rod to the kids, would it help..? This is what they had to say...

Shirley said: Stronger, firmer parents. Too often parents allow the child to 'run' the house. To mean what you say and stick with it regardless.

Sandra said : Spankings are necessary, but discipline needs to start in the home. A spanking from a teacher means nothing if not endorsed and supported by discipline in the home.

Mira said : All over the world, discipline has gone out the back door and thus kids are out of hand.......law should be put back into place where kids have no say until they qualify or have their own jobs, and I think after finishing school all kids should do a COMPULSORY military/saps/marine train for 2 yrs, here they are being disciplined and also earn an income and also have the opportunities to study further......somewhere, someone lost the plot and thus kids of today are upside down....

Mike said : Charity begins at home & that's where spanking should begin & not left to the educators only.

John said: What's the difference between child-beating and wife-beating? Both are completely unacceptable. And they increase the levels of violence in society. If you think beating people is fine, at least pick on someone your own size. Or bigger, preferably.

Daisy said : That's a last resort for me. I choose not to inflict physical pain for my child to understand me. As a child I used to beaten me up for the same flaw every other day. Guess what? I am still not perfect. I have learned that beating up my child does not bring her to the same level thinking as me. I should try meet her half way instead.

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