The Eastern Cape Department of Education MEC, Fundile Gade has learnt with shame of the recent allegations of rape of a Grade 10 learner at Toli High school, OR Tambo Inland District.

The alleged incident according to the report provided by the district, was reported on September 24^th, 2024.  The district has swiftly moved to suspend the alleged perpetrator, while investigation is underway.  Additionally, the learner is receiving support from the Education Social Support Services unit (ESSS).  The psychosocial services provided to the learner include counselling and debriefing sessions.

Since the alleged incident has caused distress and trauma to the school’s community, the School Governing Body (SGB) visited the home of the alleged victim.  Additionally, the family has already opened a case with the South African Police Services.

MEC Gade cautioned predator educators who prey on innocent learners.  “It’s a shame to learn of such allegations involving an educator.  The South African Schools Act of 1996, declares an educator in school, as ‘an in loco parentis’.  This means that, such an educator betrays the trust not only of the learner, but the parents and the society at large.  Remember, for education to take place, we need to create a mutual trust between us (department) and parents.  Incidents of this nature are eroding and betraying such trust parents have in the system.  As the department, we shall not rest until justice is served for the learner!”, warned Gade.

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 Issued by the Eastern Cape Department of Education Communications Directorate. For any enquiries, please contact the DoE Spokesperson, Mr Mali Mtima at 083 795 2117, Acting Director: Communications and Events, Ms Nyameka Tokwe-Mgijima at 060 530 0348.