Two sexual harassment investigations under way

MBOMBELA – The Department of Education is investigating two alleged cases of sexual harassment involving the school principal of Berbice Primary School in Mkhondo Local Municipality.

Parents reported this to the police who in turn arrested him. He appeared in court on Monday and was denied bail. The department has already served him with a letter of suspension. It has begun the process to identify victims and to offer them the required support needed, including counselling. The head of the department at the school, Ms Lucia Zwane, has been appointed to take care of the school during the suspension of the principal.

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It is also alleged that one of the teachers at Rorobbani Secondary School sexually assaulted a schoolgirl. The department has also looked into the matter and has since served the teacher with a letter of suspension. The victim is also receiving counselling. The department is concerned about these developments and takes them seriously. It promises to do everything possible to ensure that justice is served.

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“We must act collaboratively with our communities and teacher unions to rid such practices from the teaching profession and create a favourable environment in which our learners, both boys and girls, will benefit academically. Schools must at all times remain safe havens for our learners and teachers. I thank the parents who reported the matter to the police and their swift action is really commendable,” said Mec ReginahMhaule.

According to Brig Mtsholi Bhembe, the principal allegedly raped the learner since 2014 until he was recently arrested. The suspect appeared in court yesterday. It was reported the learner eventually became pregnant in the process and gave birth. The man is in custody and will appear on November 22, pending a formal bail application.