**By Lulama kaSozathini | Icamagu News Editor**
A 14-year-old learner who was previously forced out of school over her dreadlocks — which her family says are linked to her spiritual calling — has been reinstated with immediate effect following the intervention of the iBhunga Leenkolo Zomthonyama Organization.
The Grade 9 learner from Lusikisiki was allegedly instructed not to return to Mxhume Senior Secondary School until she cut her dreadlocks, which school authorities said contravened the institution’s code of conduct. However, her family maintained that the dreadlocks form part of her spiritual journey and cultural identity.
After days of engagements between the school, the learner’s family, and the organization, a resolution was reached this week allowing the learner to resume classes without altering her hair.Speaking to *Icamagu News*, the spokesperson of iBhunga Leenkolo Zomthonyama Organization welcomed the outcome, describing it as a victory for dialogue and mutual understanding.> “Our intervention was not about challenging the authority of the school, but about protecting the constitutional and cultural rights of the child,” the spokesperson said. “We are pleased that the school leadership was willing to engage constructively. At the end of the day, the best interests of the learner must always come first.”
The organization confirmed that it held discussions with the school governing body and management, where both parties agreed to work together in the interest of the learner while maintaining respect for school policies.> “There must always be a balance between institutional rules and the rights of learners to practice their culture and spirituality. We appreciate that the school demonstrated willingness to find that balance,” the spokesperson added.
The learner returned to school immediately after the agreement was reached. Her family expressed relief, saying the uncertainty had caused emotional distress and disrupted her academic progress.Attempts to obtain comment from the Eastern Cape Department of Education were unsuccessful at the time of publication.
Community members and cultural leaders have since called for clearer guidelines in schools regarding cultural and spiritual expressions to prevent similar incidents in the future.As discussions around cultural identity and school policies continue across the country, this case at Mxhume Senior Secondary School in Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape Province, highlights the growing need for sensitivity, dialogue, and inclusivity within educational institutions.
