Shock videos spark Eastern Cape school sex abuse probe

Eastern Cape – Eastern Cape Education MEC Fundile Gade has condemned the sexual abuse, harassment and victimisation of learners by teachers in some of the province’s high schools and vowed to take firm action to protect children’s rights.

This comes after videos surfaced on social media allegedly implicating teachers in sexual misconduct involving pupils.

In a statement, the Eastern Cape Department of Education said it “reiterates its position in condemning such malicious, unethical and unprofessional misconduct” and pledged to act against perpetrators.

The department confirmed it has launched investigations into the allegations in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and other stakeholders.

Gade urged parents, communities, school governing bodies and educators to unite against the “terrible crime” and report incidents of abuse to authorities.

“We call upon our school principals, educators and their unions together with SGBs to do everything humanly possible to protect children and expose teachers who abuse and victimise learners,” Gade said.

“Actions of this nature must be reported to the nearest office of the department and the police. As the department we will always support all our learners facing this ordeal.”

The MEC also appealed to the judiciary to prioritise all cases relating to learner abuse to ensure speedy justice. He said departments including Basic Education, Safety, Health and Justice must work together to close legal loopholes in dealing with such cases.

“The past experiences must serve as a testimony on this question and arrests be made, not just expulsions from work,” he said.

The department’s statement stressed that children’s constitutional rights to dignity, life and education must be protected at all times.