Wendy Dondolo|Published
The Mpumalanga Department of Education has placed the principal of Khangela Primary School on precautionary suspension following his arrest over allegations of sexual assault involving an 11-year-old Grade 6 learner.
The department confirmed the suspension on Thursday, saying it had taken immediate action to protect learners and ensure the investigation proceeds without interference.
The principal's suspension comes as the South African Police Service investigates the allegations.
The department said the suspension was implemented in accordance with the Employment of Educators Act, with the aim of safeguarding learners and maintaining a stable learning environment while the matter is investigated.
“The School Management Team and the School Governing Body have been formally informed, and arrangements are underway for the appointment of an Acting Principal,” the department said.
It also confirmed that it had launched an internal investigation and would refer the matter to the South African Council for Educators.
“Any official found to have violated the trust placed in them will face both the full di
Learner and school community to receive support
The department said it would provide psychosocial support to the affected learner and her family, as well as classmates and educators who may have been affected by the incident.
Officials from Inclusive Education, including psychologists and social workers, will be deployed to provide the necessary assistance.
“The wellbeing of the affected learner remains our foremost priority,” the department said.
It added that the support would continue for as long as necessary.
The department condemned sexual misconduct and abuse against learners, reiterating its commitment to ensuring schools remain safe environments.
“Schools must be safe havens for learning and development, and the Department maintains a zero-tolerance approach to any form of sexual misconduct by its employees,” it said.
Public urged to protect learner's identity
The department has appealed to the school community and the public to remain calm and allow the legal process to unfold.
It also warned against sharing information that could identify the minor, including her name and photographs.
“To protect the minor and to comply with the Children's Act and the Criminal Law Amendment Act, we urge everyone to refrain from sharing the learner's name, photographs or any information that may lead to her identification on any public platform,” the department said.
The department said it would continue cooperating with law enforcement authorities.
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