Wendy Dondolo|Published
Gauteng Education MEC Lebogang Maile has reaffirmed the department’s zero-tolerance stance on sexual abuse after allegations that an educator sexually assaulted a Grade 4 learner at Busisiwe Primary School in Soweto.
The implicated educator has been placed on precautionary suspension pending the finalisation of a disciplinary hearing, the Gauteng Department of Education confirmed on Wednesday.
Maile visited the school on October 21, where he received a briefing from school management, the School Governing Body (SGB), the South African Police Service (SAPS) and community stakeholders about the allegations and interventions undertaken.
The department has also instructed its Psychosocial Support Team to provide emotional and psychological support to the affected learner and her family.
MEC calls for calm as processes unfold
Maile appealed to parents, learners and the surrounding community to remain calm and allow law enforcement authorities and departmental procedures to take their course.
“We understand the concerns and emotions surrounding these disturbing allegations. However, we appeal for calm and urge everyone to allow the necessary processes to unfold. We must ensure that justice is not compromised by interference or speculation,” Maile said.
The MEC stressed the importance of avoiding interference and prejudgment while the matter is being addressed through the relevant processes.
Maile raises alarm over abuse of children
The MEC also expressed concern about gender-based violence and the abuse of children, calling on communities to take collective responsibility for safeguarding young people.
“It takes a village to raise a child, and it equally takes a village to protect a child,” Maile said.
He urged parents, educators, religious leaders and communities to work together to protect children and create safe environments that support their development.
“Schools cannot carry this responsibility alone,” he said.
Department urges responsible reporting
The department has appealed to media organisations to report on the allegations responsibly and sensitively, particularly by protecting the learner’s identity and dignity.
It also urged the media to respect ongoing processes and avoid sensationalism that could cause unnecessary public alarm.
The department said it remained committed to protecting learners, strengthening school safety and ensuring that schools remained safe environments for teaching and learning.
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