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Call Us:-011 403 2313
Call Us:-011 403 2313
Friday, 15 November 2024
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) is disgusted by the escalating reports of teacher misconduct, particularly cases of sexual violence in South African schools. Institutions meant to nurture and educate have, for some, become breeding grounds for predators who exploit their authority, leaving learners vulnerable and unprotected.
According to the South African Council for Educators (SACE), 22 teachers were dismissed between 2023 and 2024 after being found guilty of sexual misconduct. While the Education Labour Relations Council (ELRC) confirmed that the names of 65 teachers, who were found unsuitable to work with children after hearings, have been forwarded to the Department of Social Development for inclusion in the National Child Protection Register. These numbers only scratch the surface as many incidents remain unreported due to intimidation, fear, and the inherent power imbalance between teachers and learners.
Under the leadership of the ANC, children in South Africa have come to face extreme daily threats to their safety and well-being. If they are not falling into pit latrines, they are being killed by contaminated food, facing malnutrition, or being preyed upon in schools that are supposed to protect them.
The ongoing crisis reflects not only negligence but also a broader failure of the state to safeguard the most vulnerable members of society. Government has demonstrated little regard for consequence management that is in line with the offence and we would not be surprised if these teachers end up working in another province in a government department as is the norm.
The EFF highlights the rising mental health epidemic among young children, exacerbated by this inherent trauma, and violence as statistics highlight that a staggering 42% of children in South Africa have experienced physical or sexual violence. This is made obvious by the rising cases of suicide amongst learners, while most students do not have access to mental health services.
The EFF has consistently called for the presence of trained social workers in schools as critical in providing immediate psychological support, assisting in reporting abuse, and fostering an environment of trust for learners to speak out against sexual assault. Furthermore, we recommend that every teacher found guilty of sexual misconduct not only be barred from working with children but also face criminal prosecution. Striking names off the teachers’ roll is insufficient; justice must be served.
Additionally, the Departments of Education and Social Development must ensure robust systems are in place to report, investigate, and prevent such crimes in schools. The EFF will follow up with the SACE, South African Police Services (SAPS), the National Prosecuting Authority and the Department of Education to ensure that the 22 teachers are criminally prosecuted.
ISSUED BY THE ECONOMIC FREEDOM FIGHTERS
Leigh-Ann Mathys (National Spokesperson) 082 304 7572
Thato Lebyane (Media Enquiries) 078 304 7572