SAHRC to investigate alleged racism at Free State school

The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) will investigate allegations of racism at a Free State school, it said on Monday.

"There were complaints that some of those kids [in the school] have been called kaffirs," said spokesman Isaac Mangena.

The old South African flag and a picture of expelled ANC Youth League president Julius Malema alongside that of a monkey were also reportedly put up on a classroom wall.

The SAHRC said it conducted an on-site inspection of the Wilgehof Primary School, in Bloemfontein, after a white pupil's parent laid a complaint.

"We have opened a file to investigate charges of racism and inequality," said Mangena.

He said the SAHRC would work with the basic education department on the matter.

"After opening the file, we will be speaking to the respondents; the school, the principal and the teachers."