Teboho Setena
Violence in schools across the Free State continues to rear its ugly head, with sexual misconduct tilting the scale. In addition to the rage seems to be sporadic cases of assault involving learners and teachers.
The Free State Department of Education has confirmed the immediate suspension of a male teacher amidst allegations of sexual misconduct. The latest case is that of a 34-year-old teacher of the Mamelleng-Thuto Secondary School in Bothaville, in the Lejweleputswa District.
Howard Ndaba, spokesperson for the department, said the matter had been referred to the Education Labour Relations Council (ELRC) while the police are continuing with the investigation. This pertains to the alleged rape of a 14-year-old learner in Gr.9.
Ndaba said the teacher’s suspension followed his arrest and appearance in the Bothaville Magistrates’ Court on 23 May. http://Violence involving learners in Free State schools rears its ugly head
“The incident reportedly occurred on 17 May and was reported to the police the next day, followed by the opening of a criminal case. The learner’s mother reported the incident to the school principal on 19 May.”
He said following the police’s investigation, the educator was arrested on 22 May after allegedly attempting to evade arrest.
“The department has referred the matter to its Labour Relations Directorate for further investigation and internal disciplinary processes. A precautionary suspension has been issued to the educator with immediate effect, pending the outcome of both the criminal case and internal disciplinary procedures.”
Ndaba said the department had arranged psychological support for the affected learner.
“Monitoring and support for the learner will continue to ensure a full recovery,” said Ndaba.
He also confirmed the suspension of two teachers at schools in Bloemfontein: a 31-year-old teacher at the Dr Böhmer School of Skills, and a 30-year-old teacher at the Dr Viljoen Combined School.
The incident at Dr Böhmer pertains to the alleged assault of a learner on 26 March, while that of Dr Viljoen is regarding the alleged rape of a 17-year-old learner. The latter reportedly happened before the writing of her matric final exam during October last year.
Ndaba said all cases have been referred to the ELRC, while the department also continues with its investigations.
“The 17-year-old victim did write her final exams at an alternative venue. The school provided transport to and from the venue, including collection at home,” said Ndaba.
The teacher fingered in the Dr Viljoen case was reportedly granted bail during his appearance on 23 April, having been remanded in custody since October last year.
Ndaba said part of the teacher’s bail conditions included not accessing the school premises; also, not having contact with the learner.
Dr Julia Maboya, Free State MEC for Education, stressed: “The safety and well-being of our learners is our highest priority. We have zero tolerance for any form of abuse or misconduct within our schools.”
To date, the ELRC reported there had been 12 cases of sexual harassment and abuse of learners by teachers in the province referred to it for the 2024-’25 period.
