As the country marks Child Protection Week, disturbing reports of sexual abuse involving young learners continue to surface, raising serious questions about safety in schools.

Southern Courier reports that one such case has emerged at Laerskool Dalmondeor in Johannesburg South, where a Grade 2 learner was assaulted, allegedly by a staff member.

Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane has expressed deep concern following the incident.

The incident reportedly took place last Wednesday in one of the school’s cloakrooms.

According to the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE), the learner’s mother alleged that her child was assaulted by a general assistant and opened a case at Mondeor Police Station that same day.

It is understood that the school only became aware of the allegation on Tuesday when police visited the premises and arrested the implicated staff member.

Police investigations into the matter are ongoing. The accused remains in custody and will be precautionarily removed from his position at the school, pending further developments.

“The GDE takes allegations of this nature extremely seriously,” said the department in a statement. “The safety, protection, and psychological well-being of all learners remain our foremost priority.”

Chiloane condemned the incident in the strongest terms and emphasised the importance of tightening safety measures at all educational institutions.

“It is heartbreaking that a child could be subjected to such trauma in a place meant to nurture and protect them,” said Chiloane.

“This incident is a painful reminder of the urgent need to strengthen protective measures in all learning environments and ensure that no child is ever subjected to harm while under our care.”

The GDE has committed to offering psycho-social support to the learner and their family.

Southern Courier has contacted Mondeor SAPS for further comment.

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