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Parents and community members demonstrate outside the gates of Langaville elementary school near Brakpan, demanding that a teacher accused of sexual assault be fired. Photo: Kimberly Mutandiro
Parents have been demonstrating for a week at the gates of Langaville elementary school near Brakpan, demanding that a teacher accused of sexual assault be fired.
Following continued appeals from parents, the Gauteng Department of Education confirmed this week to GroundUp that the teacher has been temporarily removed from his post pending an investigation into the allegations.
On Monday, community activists and parents barricaded the entrance to the school while holding up posters calling for the removal of teachers. It is alleged that a 5th grade student in Langaville informed her grandmother that the accused forced her and another student to do inappropriate things. The grandmother then informed the principal three weeks ago and apparently no action was taken by the school.
The community was then informed and outraged by the inaction of the schools. They say other learners have since come forward, accusing the teacher of sexual abuse.
The children say the teacher forces them to massage their feet and body in class and touch their private parts, said Bafana Mazibuko, a representative of the South African National Civic Organization (SANCO).
Resident Bheki Ngobeni said the community demands an investigation into the allegations against the teacher.
At around noon, principal Khosi Mahlangu read the letter confirming the temporary suspension of teachers in front of the crowd.
Solly Mashego, a ministry official said: “The ministry had not been made aware of the matter. We are concerned that children are skipping school because of these protests. However, the matter will be investigated.
After the picket line, 81 community members signed a petition to support the suspension of teachers. They also transmitted a memorandum of demands, calling for more transparency in the employment of teachers at the school. Activists promised parents that they would monitor the investigation and give their opinion.
The learners’ grandmother said, I am very worried because the innocence of my grandchildren has been taken away. I want justice to be done so that I can be at peace. If nothing is done, this thing will continue and other children will be raped.
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