Tanzanian Child’s Death Ignites Debate on Corporal Punishment and Teacher Accountability

By Adonis Byemelwa

In a shocking turn of events at Mrupanga Primary School in Kilimanjaro region, Tanzania, the tragic death of six-year-old first-grade student Jonathan Makanyaga raised serious concerns about the alleged involvement of five trainee teachers in the incident.

 The young boy, a resident of Kimanganuni Village in Uru South Ward, Moshi District, passed away on March 10 at the KCMC Referral Hospital, where he was admitted following severe injuries sustained from a reported beating for arriving late to school.

The incident, which occurred on February 28, saw Jonathan and two other classmates subjected to corporal punishment by an unnamed teacher. While the two students managed to shield themselves using backpacks, Jonathan suffered injuries to his spine, ribs, and thighs before succumbing to the blows.

His mother, Janeth Shayo, discovered his injuries upon his return home, prompting a harrowing journey seeking medical attention that ultimately ended in the child's tragic demise.

The Kilimanjaro Regional Police Commander, Simon Maigwa, announced the detention and interrogation of the five trainee teachers, shedding light on the failure of the school staff to inform the police when Jonathan's mother and grandmother initially visited the school. The police investigation aims to uncover the truth behind the child's death, and a post-mortem examination has been scheduled to determine the exact cause.

Janeth Shayo, grieving the loss of her son, recounted the heart-wrenching details of the punishment inflicted on him for being an hour late to school. Despite providing painkillers initially, Jonathan's condition worsened, leading his mother to seek medical help.

The school's deputy headteacher declined to comment on the ongoing investigation, while the Moshi District Council Director, Shedrack Mhagama, claimed that the child had been battling blood cancer for an extended period.

However, the hospital's spokesperson, Gabriel Chisseo, contradicted Mhagama's statement, revealing that the medical examination showed severe blood deficiency and a diagnosis of blood cancer. Complications were deemed likely due to a remarkably low platelet count of only 11, intensifying the gravity of the situation.

This tragic incident has reignited the debate surrounding corporal punishment in Tanzanian schools. Former President John Magufuli's endorsement of caning in 2019, following the controversial actions of the former Mbeya regional commissioner, Albert Chalamila, is now under scrutiny. Chalamila had disciplined students and demanded payments for the repair of allegedly burnt school dormitories, with Magufuli supporting the decision during a public meeting.

The government's ban on corporal punishment in 2018, as announced by the then Deputy Minister of Education, Science, and Technology, William Ole Nasha, was a response to guidelines outlined in Education Circular No. 24 of 2002. The circular emphasized that caning should only be applied for serious disciplinary and criminal offenses, not for every mistake. However, Magufuli's call for a review of the ban suggested a possible policy change.

In 2016, the government took action against physical punishment at Mbeya Day School after a video showing teachers physically punishing a student went viral on social media. The incident sparked investigations, highlighting the negative impact of such practices and leading to a nationwide discussion on the role of discipline in schools.

Teachers involved in practical training (BTP), like the five currently under investigation, are not authorized to administer punishment according to the 1978 Education Act. This raises questions about the adherence to regulations and the accountability of school staff in ensuring the safety and well-being of students.

The tragic death of Jonathan Makanyaga serves as a poignant reminder of the potential consequences of corporal punishment, prompting a renewed national conversation on the legality, ethics, and effectiveness of such disciplinary measures in Tanzanian schools. As the investigation unfolds, the need for a thorough review of existing policies and a commitment to ensuring the safety of students is more critical than ever.

The severity of corporal punishment extends beyond physical harm, with psychological and emotional repercussions that can impact a student's overall well-being. Moreover, teachers worldwide face daunting challenges in managing indiscipline, as evidenced by alarming incidents in developed countries. For instance, in the United States, there have been reports of students trekking into classrooms with guns, posing a grave threat to teachers and fellow students.

These distressing events underscore the urgency of adopting alternative disciplinary methods and fostering a supportive environment within schools. While acknowledging the difficulties teachers encounter in maintaining order, it is essential to prioritize the safety and mental health of both educators and students.

 As the nation grapples with the aftermath of Jonathan's tragic death, a comprehensive review of disciplinary practices becomes imperative, aiming for justice and positive changes not only in Tanzania but on a global scale. The world watches with bated breath, hoping for an education system that promotes safety, empathy, and effective discipline.

In the pursuit of justice and the betterment of education systems, legal counsel becomes a crucial ally for teacher trainees. Legal experts can guide navigating complex regulations, ensuring trainees are well-informed about permissible disciplinary measures and acting within the bounds of the law.

Additionally, educators should prioritize professional development that emphasizes alternative, non-violent disciplinary methods, equipping them with the skills to maintain order while safeguarding the well-being of students. Through collaboration between legal professionals and educators, we can foster an environment where teacher trainees can fulfill their roles effectively without facing unwarranted legal consequences. This harmonious collaboration promises a future where education is synonymous with safety, empathy, and positive transformation.