GWERU — A Budiriro Primary School teacher was handed a five-month jail sentence after being found guilty of assaulting a Grade 7 learner and prefect after the boy failed to go to the assembly point on time.

Ngoni Matendere (54), pleaded guilty to the assault charges during his appearance before magistrate Beaulity Dube.

The court was told that on March 4, the school siren signaled the start of the assembly, but the complainant, a 12-year-old prefect, delayed going to the assembly point despite being advised twice by Matendere.

The teacher, infuriated by the student's actions, assaulted the school prefect using his hands and a stick.

As a result of the assault, the learner sustained injuries, including a swollen left cheek and left ear, as detailed in the medical report presented in court.

Public Prosecutor Christine Shoniwa said a custodial sentence sends a clear message to teachers that breaking the law through physical violence against learners will not be tolerated.