On September 21st, a netizen posted a video on social media claiming that the principal of the affiliated Puning School of South China Normal University in Guangdong Province openly warned parents at a parent meeting, saying, “Anyone who dares to speak recklessly in front of the camera is digging their own grave.” This news quickly gained attention.
The video shows that the Puning School affiliated with South China Normal University held a parent meeting with the theme of “working together to build a harmonious relationship between the school and parents.” During the meeting, Principal Yang Chulong, representing the school, passionately cautioned parents about the school’s development and child upbringing, stating, “If any parent dares to speak recklessly in front of the camera, they are digging their own grave. Are you willing to give up your house? Your child? We must firmly resist this.”
According to local netizens, Puning School is a public school where one can “buy a house in the community to secure admission.”
Public information indicates that Puning School, affiliated with South China Normal University, is a 12-year public school jointly developed by Puning Municipal Government, South China Normal University, and Xinghe Group.
The PowerPoint slide displayed behind Principal Yang Chulong stated that the school emphasizes fostering love for the school starting from the family, from parents. It emphasized that anyone speaking ill of the school would be collectively attacked, internal issues resolved internally, and prohibited from spreading rumors, instead encouraging discussions on the school’s outstanding achievements. In essence, only positive feedback about the school is permitted, while negative comments are discouraged.
The principal’s remarks sparked discussions online. Some parents in the video comment section expressed dissatisfaction, stating, “He said we can’t speak ill of the school or even complain about the school cafeteria’s food quality,” adding, “Many students come home to eat because the food is unsatisfactory.”
In response to the situation, a staff member from Puning City Education Bureau confirmed to “Extreme News” on September 23rd that the improper remarks made by the principal were true, and he has been suspended from duty.
Some netizens voiced their opinions, suggesting, “This is not just improper remarks; this is a threat,” and exclaimed, “This is blatant intimidation!” Others labeled the principal as a ‘school bully’ and speculated, “Is he suggesting ‘comply with me and prosper, resist me and perish’?” One commenter emphasized the importance of accountability, stating, “Regardless of what parents say, as long as it’s factual, why fear public opinion? With such a principal, the school must be a mess! It’s not parents resisting, it’s the parents resisting the school.”
Another netizen questioned, “Who is above the principal?” and provocatively asked, “Do you (local residents) still dare to buy houses in Xinghe Mingzhu Bay?”
The controversial incident has raised concerns regarding freedom of speech and accountability in the education system, prompting a wider societal debate on the dynamics between school management, parents, and community oversight. The outcome of this situation remains uncertain, as stakeholders reflect on the implications of the principal’s actions and the principles of constructive dialogue within educational settings.