El-Zané Du Plessis, a Northern Cape teacher, recently shared a harrowing experience that has sparked a heated debate on social media.
She had entrusted her Volkswagen T-Cross to her grade 11 students for a car wash fundraiser, but one student took it upon himself to go for a joyride, resulting in a serious accident that damaged the radiator, gearbox, and chassis.
The incident occurred when Miss Du Plessis left the keys in the car for the students to clean it thoroughly. However, the student had other plans and drove the car at high speed, nearly hitting a woman and child before crashing into a ditch. What’s more, this student had a history of reckless behavior, having driven another teacher’s car through town just the day before.
She expressed her disappointment that the student showed no remorse for his actions. In fact, the student callously remarked that even if she sued him, his parents’ unemployment would mean she’d only receive R20 a month in compensation.
The teacher has faced challenges in seeking support for her case. The South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU) refused to back her, citing their inability to take criminal action against minors’ cases. However, SADTU’s Chief Executive, Paul Sauer, stated that while they can’t intervene in criminal matters, they would support Miss Du Plessis if she’s unhappy with the school’s disciplinary process.
The incident has sparked a lively discussion online, with many questioning whether Miss Du Plessis should have entrusted the students with her car keys. Some internet users are also debating whether she’ll be able to get any help from her insurance.
The student drove the car recklessly, causing significant damage and putting lives at risk. He showed no apology for his actions and even joked about the financial implications.
SADTU’s limited role in supporting her and the police investigation under the National Road Traffic Act.
The incident has sparked discussions about responsibility, trust, and insurance coverage, “Leaving your car keys with teenage boys is a bit negligent. I don’t even give niggas at the car wash my keys, I move it myself.”
One said: “The insurance will not pay! It is negligent.”
“Let’s see how the insurance will tackle this one,” wrote one.
“I washed cars at school. To make extra money; not even once did I drive them teachers cars,” shared another one.
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