MEC Maile vows continued support for learner in Karabo Primary abuse case
The matter was before the court on July 20, with the accused teacher remaining in custody as the criminal justice process continues.
The Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Lebogang Maile, has reaffirmed the Gauteng Department of Education’s commitment to protecting learners following court proceedings in the criminal case involving the alleged sexual abuse of a learner at Karabo Primary School in Naledi.
The matter was before the court on July 20, with the accused remaining in custody as the criminal justice process continues.
Maile said he remains deeply disturbed by the allegations and extended his sympathy and continued support to the learner, the learner’s family, and the broader school community during this difficult time.
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According to the department, it responded immediately after the incident was reported on May 28. The matter was promptly reported to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the learner received medical treatment and psychosocial support through the Thuthuzela Care Centre, and the teacher was subsequently arrested.
“As this matter is now before the courts, it would be inappropriate to comment on the merits of the criminal proceedings.
“We have full confidence in the South African Police Service, the National Prosecuting Authority and the judiciary to discharge their constitutional responsibilities independently and without interference,” said Maile.
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He said the department remains guided by legislation, including the Employment of Educators Act, the Labour Relations Act, the South African Schools Act and the Children’s Act, when dealing with disciplinary and administrative processes.
While employees are entitled to procedural fairness and are presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of law, Maile stressed that these rights do not override the department’s responsibility to safeguard learners and take appropriate action where necessary.
“The protection of learners remains our foremost priority. Every child has the constitutional right to dignity, safety and a learning environment free from abuse, exploitation and violence. We will continue to provide the necessary psychosocial support to the learner and cooperate fully with all law enforcement authorities until the matter has been finalised,” he said.
Maile also reiterated the Gauteng Provincial Government’s zero-tolerance stance on sexual abuse, gender-based violence and all forms of violence against children.
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He urged parents, teachers, community members, religious organisations, civil society and law enforcement agencies to remain vigilant and report any suspected abuse without delay.
“The safety of our children cannot be left to government alone. It requires the active involvement of parents, families, teachers, communities, religious institutions, civil society and law enforcement agencies.
“This is precisely why we continue to champion the ‘It Takes a Village to Raise a Child’ campaign. Protecting children is a shared constitutional and moral responsibility, and together we must ensure that our schools remain places of safety, dignity and hope,” said Maile.
