Investigations continue into alleged abuse at Soshanguve school

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has confirmed that investigations into disturbing allegations of misconduct at Tiyelelani Secondary School in Soshanguve, north of Pretoria, are still underway.

The probe follows a protest by learners on September 2, which disrupted teaching and learning at Tiyelelani and surrounding schools in the Block L area.

Learners embarked on a march between schools during class hours, raising concerns about allegations of sexual assault by an educator and an inappropriate relationship between a bus driver and a girl learner.

They also accused the principal of failing to act on the reports once they were brought to him.

The unrest led to property damage, and one learner was injured and taken to a nearby clinic for medical treatment.

In the immediate aftermath, the GDE announced the removal of the principal from the school to stabilise the environment.

GDE spokesperson Steve Mabona clarified that the principal was not suspended but instead placed on a precautionary transfer to the district office, pending the outcome of investigations.

“The principal at the said school is not suspended, but placed on precautionary transfer at the district office whilst investigations are in progress,” said Mabona.

Officials emphasised that this measure was taken to ensure impartiality in the enquiry and to allow learners and staff to continue their academic programme without disruption.

The acting deputy principal remains in charge of the school’s daily operations, supported by district officials.

This arrangement will remain in place until the enquiry is concluded.

Palesa Modise, Tshwane MMC for Community Development and Social Services, said the metro is deeply disturbed by numerous allegations of child grooming and statutory rape at the school.

“These distressing incidents have prompted protests by learners, and the matter has since been brought to the attention of governance and political oversight leaders.

“Preliminary assessments have revealed that a significant number of learners are experiencing severe trauma because of these alleged incidents,” said Modise.

She said there is an urgent need for psychosocial support and professional intervention.

“The Gauteng Department of Social Development in the City of Tshwane immediately deployed social workers to the school.

“Their mandate is to provide trauma counselling, psychosocial support, and guidance to the affected learners, and to ensure their emotional well-being and restore a conducive learning environment. This programme will be ongoing,” she said.

She said the metro remains committed to safeguarding the rights, safety, and dignity of children in our communities.

“We will continue to work closely with law enforcement, educational authorities, and other stakeholders to address this matter decisively and ensure accountability where violations have occurred.”

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