Naledi-ya-Meso Secondary School in Limpopo has recorded a 100% matric failure
rate, with poor management, weak discipline and limited parental involvement cited
as contributing factors. Educators and parents have also pointed to a deeply rooted
fear in the community that academic success can attract witchcraft.

Learners have described feelings of shame, humiliation and hopelessness, while
parents say their children withdrew from social life following the results. Education
officials have raised concerns about ongoing discipline problems, violence and a
breakdown in school governance, as well as a belief that standing out, excelling or
being seen as “too clever” can be dangerous.

This raises a deeper question: what happens when fear discourages success, and
how do we protect children caught in the middle?

Joining us to unpack this from both psychological, cultural and systematic
perspectives are Anele Siswana, Siyabonga Mkhize and Itumeleng Mothlabane.