Working conditions for black South Africans in China came under the spotlight after a woman was assaulted, allegedly by an HR manager, in Shanghai.
Nolusindiso Hleko, a preschool teacher working at a kindergarten in China, took to TikTok last week to detail how the manager assaulted her at the school where she worked.
Hleko, sporting a black eye, shared a harrowing tale of her run-in with an HR Manager, detailing how she was prevented from leaving the building.
In a Facebook post, Hleko confirmed she would be leaving her job in Shangai after the incident.
“I’ve just been to a hospital to check my eye and they say it’s good. I just need to cold compress for the next 5 days.
And yes, I’m packing my bags and leaving this place… I was going to leave anyways but this made me certain that I’m making a good decision,” she said.
“The guy who decided to punch me while on duty, woke up today and went to work like nothing happened.
It’s funny how I felt like I needed to cover myself up in embarrassment when I’m the victim here. Ultimately decided to show up everywhere looking like this.”
WATCH: South African teaching in China details her assault
South Africans have expressed outrage over the incident and hounded South African authorities on social media to find Hleko.
The South African government sprang into action, making contact with the kindergarten teacher. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has confirmed that Hleko is now safe in Germany.
More South Africans look overseas for work
South Africans have, in recent years, increasingly been lured overseas in search of better employment opportunities.
They are driven by desires for improved job security and economic prospects as the country grapples with soaring unemployment rates and income inequality.
ALSO READ: South Africa youth unemployment and the death of traditional employment
While this exodus can benefit South Africans by enabling them to send much-needed money back home, it poses challenges.
The employment conditions within South Africa often suffer, with a significant brain drain and skilled labour shortage. The country must address these issues by creating a more attractive environment for its workforce to ensure sustainable growth and development.
Teaching in China is attractive for young, skilled, underpaid or unemployed education professionals. South Africa’s enthusiasm for international teaching opportunities is met by the high demand for English language teachers in its BRICS counterpart, China.
China’s robust job market for foreign teachers offers attractive salaries and benefits. This economic incentive, combined with the lower cost of living in many Chinese cities, allows South Africans to save money while gaining valuable international experience.
Moreover, China’s rich culture, history, and diverse landscapes intrigue South African educators. Job opportunities provide an immersive opportunity to explore a fascinating and dynamic country.
The chance to work in well-equipped schools and engage with motivated students is another major draw, along with the possibility of learning Mandarin and expanding their global perspectives.
Overall, teaching in China is an enticing opportunity for South Africans seeking career growth and cultural enrichment.
DIRCO has reiterated its appeal to other South Africans who wish to travel or work abroad to use the #DircoTravelSmartApp.
ALSO READ: South African police minister receives China’s Great Wall award
