Mother of Gauteng learner (6) ‘raped’ at school toilets wants justice

The mother of the six-year-old learner who was allegedly raped at Khensani primary school in Soshanguve has expressed her anger over the incident.

The mother, who could be named to protect the child’s identity, said her daughter was getting better after the traumatic experience. “She has been playing and she’s getting a bit better. We are trying to be strong so that she can also be strong.”

She said the child has since told her that when she goes back to back to school, she would not be using the toilets. “This has affected her a lot mentally but she really loves school.

The man accused of raping her has since been identified by the Gauteng Department of Education as a general assistant at the school.

According to Gauteng education MEC Panyaza Lesufi, initial reports indicate that the incident happened on Monday, August 2 during school hours when the young girl asked to use the bathroom.

“The girl told her mother on the evening of the next day that she was raped at the school,” said Lesufi, who added the department was disturbed and angered by the allegations of a sexual assault of the Grade 1 learner.

“We always strive to make our schools havens for our learners. We call on anyone with any information who can help in this matter to contact law enforcement agencies.

“Our psycho-social unit has already visited the school and offered support to the learner’s family.”

The learner has received medical attention and was not back at school yet. A case has been opened with the police.

“We condemn any actions that place our learners in danger.”

Soshanguve police spokesperson Constable Portia Sebone confirmed that police were investigating.

Sebone could not confirm whether the alleged assailant has been arrested.