Lerato Mbhiza
THE Gauteng Department of Education has launched an investigation into a series of rape allegations in Hope School, a school for the physically disabled pupils in Westcliff.
The investigation comes in the wake of a recent incident where it is alleged a Matriculant molested a Grade 4 pupil at the school’s boarding facilities.
The department said there was another incident earlier in 2023, involving a Grade 9 boy and a Grade 8 girl.
The GDE is also investigating ill-discipline among the pupils and maladministration at the school.
Gauteng Education spokesperson Steve Mabona confirmed that the department is aware of two alleged rape incidents at the Johannesburg-based school.
“The most recent incident took place on Thursday, 26 October, where a Grade 12 boy learner allegedly raped a Grade 4 boy learner at the school boarding facility.
“A previous incident took place on 14 February 2023, where a Grade 9 boy learner allegedly raped a Grade 8 girl learner,” said Mabona.
Mabona said officials have been in constant communication with the parents of all affected learners, providing necessary support.
Incidents of ill-discipline were also a concern for the department, Mabona said.
“This includes an incident where a pupil was hospitalised after fellow pupils unlocked his electric wheelchair, causing him to lose control and sustain severe injuries.
“The incident is alleged to have taken place after school when the learners were reportedly playing around on the school premises.
“The learner in question has unfortunately not returned to school, and is recuperating at home, while the other learners were taken through necessary disciplinary processes.”
Mabona said another pupil allegedly brought space cookies to school and shared them with his fellow pupils.
“Educators reported this incident after noticing learners displaying strange behaviour. Subsequently, about 8 learners tested positive for drug usage, and the perpetrator was suspended.”
Hope School’s former principal faced several charges but was cleared by the Education Labour Relations Council.
Mabona said the department is working to come to an amicable solution on her return.
“In light of all these events, it is paramount to launch an investigation that will probe the circumstances of these incidents and hold possible individuals accountable.
“This action by the department will be concurrent with police investigations into sensitive matters occurring at the school. We are hopeful the police will handle these cases with the sensitivity they deserve.”
INSIDE EDUCATION
