Male teacher placing his hand on the head of a female student as a gesture of affection and encouragement

Q: I am working as teacher in a Higher Secondary School, where students of age group 14-18 are enrolled. 

Is it permissible in Islam for a male teacher to place his hand on the head of a female student as a gesture of affection and encouragement.

A: No. This is totally shameful behaviour. You may do this for your child and wife.

And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best.

Answered by:

Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)