11-9-2023 (BEIJING) A primary school teacher in Changsha, Hunan, China, is facing serious consequences after an incident in which he hit a student’s head, resulting in a skull fracture that required extensive brain surgery.
The incident occurred during an after-school activity at Bocai Meixi Lake Primary School in Yuelu district, Changsha, last Wednesday (Sept 6). The teacher, identified as a 40-year-old man surnamed Song, reportedly struck the nine-year-old student, surnamed Liu, on the forehead with a triangular ruler made of tempered glass. The impact of the blow caused the ruler to pierce the girl’s skull, resulting in a deep wound measuring four to five centimetres.
Shockingly, Song did not immediately inform Liu’s parents of the accident. Instead, he took the injured student to the school’s infirmary to have her wound bandaged. It wasn’t until two hours later that Liu’s parents were notified, and she was subsequently sent to the hospital for medical treatment.
Liu’s relative provided this information to Chinese media on Sept 7, stating that the young girl was still in grave danger after undergoing a five-hour brain surgery. She had fallen into a coma as a result of her injuries.
On Thursday afternoon, the Yuelu police confirmed the arrest of Song on suspicion of intentional injury. Additionally, the Yuelu district education authorities announced the suspension of Song and another staff member involved in the incident.
Currently, Song is in police custody, and the case is undergoing further investigation, according to the Global Times.
The education authorities have expressed their commitment to handling the matter strictly in accordance with the law and regulations. They also intend to enhance the overall professionalism of teachers and the management of student safety.
Thankfully, Liu has since regained consciousness. On Sept 8, videos circulated on Chinese social media showing her responding to a doctor’s questions and instructions. She was able to communicate her name and exhibit movement in her arms and legs.
