Gauteng MEC reaffirms zero tolerance for sexual abuse after Soweto school allegations

Gauteng Education MEC Lebogang Maile has reaffirmed the department’s zero-tolerance stance on sexual abuse following allegations of sexual assault involving a learner at Busisiwe Primary School in Soweto.

Maile visited the school on October 21 to receive a briefing from the school management, School Governing Body (SGB), the police and community stakeholders about the allegations and interventions undertaken.

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) confirmed that the implicated teacher had been placed on precautionary suspension pending the finalisation of disciplinary proceedings.

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The department’s Psychosocial Support Team has also been instructed to provide emotional and psychological support to the learner and her family.

Maile appealed to parents, learners and the surrounding community to remain calm and allow the relevant departmental and law enforcement processes to unfold without interference or prejudgment.

“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 also raised concerns about gender-based violence and child abuse, calling on communities to work together to protect children and promote positive values.

“It takes a village to raise a child, and it equally takes a village to protect a child. Parents, educators, religious leaders and communities must work together to protect our children and create conducive environments for their development into responsible, productive and desirable citizens. Schools cannot carry this responsibility alone,” he said.

Maile urged the media to report responsibly and sensitively, emphasising the need to protect the learner’s identity and dignity, respect ongoing processes and avoid sensationalism.

The department reiterated its commitment to learner safety and ensuring schools remain safe environments for teaching and learning.