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The principal of Khangela Primary School in Mpumalanga has been suspended following his arrest on allegations of sexually assaulting an 11-year-old grade 6 pupil.
The Mpumalanga department of education confirmed on Thursday that the principal had been placed on precautionary suspension with immediate effect following his arrest. The department said the move was intended to protect the investigation, safeguard pupils and ensure teaching and learning continued in a safe environment.
“The school management team and the school governing body have been formally informed, and arrangements are under way for the appointment of an acting principal,” the department said.
Any official found to have violated the trust placed in them will face both the full disciplinary process of the department and the criminal justice system
— Department of education
The department condemned all forms of abuse and sexual violence against pupils, saying it had a zero-tolerance approach to sexual misconduct by its employees.
“Any official found to have violated the trust placed in them will face both the full disciplinary process of the department and the criminal justice system.”
The department said its priority is the wellbeing of the affected pupil. Officials from inclusive education, including psychologists and social workers, will provide support to the girl and her family. Support will also be extended to classmates and educators who might have been affected by the incident.
“This support will continue for as long as it is needed.”
The department has launched an internal investigation and will refer the matter to the South African Council for Educators. It said it would co-operate fully with the criminal investigation and urged the school community and the public to remain calm and allow the legal process to take its course.
It warned the public against sharing information that could identify the child. “To protect the minor and to comply with the Children’s Act and the Criminal Law Amendment Act, we urge everyone to refrain from sharing the learner’s name, photographs or any information that may lead to her identification on any public platform,” it said.
The department encouraged pupils, parents and educators to report abuse to their schools, district offices, its toll-free line or the police.
TimesLIVE
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