Abu Dhabi: A father accused a physical education teacher at a private school in the capital of allegedly cutting his 14-year-old son's hair and banging his head against the wall, Gulf News has learnt.

The teacher is accused of cutting S.Q.'s hair and assaulting him last Sunday, Abdul, the boy's father, said.

"My son was humiliated in front of his peers when the teacher chopped off his hair. It was a barbaric act," Abdul claimed.

"I don't understand why he behaved in this manner, especially when my son had done nothing wrong. Not even a misbehaving child deserves this kind of treatment from a teacher," he added.

Abdul said his son was shocked after the teacher proceeded to bang his head against the wall.

"My son, who has never been the kind to dislike school, is in severe mental shock and he never wants to go to school any more. I don't even have the words to explain his state at present," Abdul said.

He added that he was awaiting action from the school's authorities.

Punishment sought

"In my opinion, such an act justifies the dismissal of the teacher," Abdul said.

"I approached the principal of the school, and he told me he would look into the matter. I want to ensure that such instances do not occur again to any child."

The school's principal confirmed that he was aware of the issue and was carrying out further investigations to better understand the situation.

"The parent complained to me about what his child went through. We are carrying out inquiries and hope to solve the matter in an amicable way for all parties involved," he said.

The teacher, who has been with the school for over 20 years, was a good physical education teacher, the principal said.

A meeting between the principal and the Abu Dhabi Education Council (Adec), which was informed of the incident, is being arranged.

"Adec has communicated with the school leadership and has already begun an investigation into this allegation," said Yousuf Al Shiriyani, educational advisor to Adec's director-general.

"Adec is very clear on the fact that abuse of any kind in school will not be tolerated and disciplinary action will be taken if any party is found to be at fault," Al Shiriyani added.

Parents: Got a complaint?

Parents with complaints about the alleged use of corporal punishment, or aggressive and threatening approaches to discipline are requested to immediately register a complaint at the school and to inform the Adec of their complaint within 24 hours. They can call 02 615 0000 and register their complaints.

Source: Adec