The surge in rape incidents at KZN learning institutions has heightened fears over the protection of learners.

The Witness reports that according to the latest provincial crime statistics, 296 cases of rape were reported at schools, tertiary institutions, daycare centres and special schools between April and December 2024.

Call for urgent accountability

Responding to the statistics, provincial chief executive officer of the National Professional Teachers’ Organisation of South Africa, Thirona Moodley, called for urgent action and accountability to address the scourge.

“This is unacceptable. Parents must act on behalf of their children. These incidents must not be negotiated, and those found guilty must face the consequences.”

She warned that teachers found guilty face permanent removal from the South African Council for Educators’ roll. “Teachers have forgotten their roles and the Educators Act [76 of 1998],” she said.

Children most at risk

Director of Lifeline Pietermaritzburg Sinikiwe Biyela described rape and sexual abuse as a growing crisis, with children most at risk.

“Our stats suggest that over two-thirds of sexual abuse happens to children under 18,” she said.

In 2023, Lifeline dealt with 1 399 new cases of rape and sexual abuse in uMgungundlovu alone. Of these, 902 involved children under 18, including 658 school-going children between the ages of 7 and 18.

Biyela said perpetrators deliberately target children, exploiting weaknesses in DNA evidence collection that can collapse cases. “This has taught perpetrators to target children, which is why there are such high levels of rape and sexual abuse in learning institutions,” she explained.

Reporting barriers

Biyela added that teachers are increasingly the ones reporting cases, often after school holidays when children disclose abuse. Yet, some families still prefer to ‘negotiate damages’ rather than open criminal cases, particularly when perpetrators are relatives or community members.

“About 80% of survivors know their perpetrators. Parents sometimes don’t believe their child. But it is vital always to believe a disclosure. Perpetrators can be upstanding community members, but in private they can be extremely dangerous,” she said.

Community vigilance urged

Mountain Rise SAPS Community Policing Forum chairperson Sham Govender said vigilance is essential, noting cases where abuse stemmed from relationships between learners.

“Always know where your child is, even in communal areas. Never leave your child unattended,” he warned.

Biyela stressed that failing to report child rape or sexual abuse is itself a criminal offence. Reports can be made anonymously to Lifeline or the SAPS.

For assistance, contact Lifeline Pietermaritzburg on 033 342 4447 or ask to speak to a social worker at the nearest police station.

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