Crackdown after pregnancies spark outrage as abuse scandal rocks Eastern Cape schools
Minister Siviwe Gwarube is enforcing urgent measures to protect learners after sexual abuse allegations and school disruptions, calling for investigations, accountability, and strengthened systems to ensure safe, uninterrupted education.
Image: Basic Education Department / X
Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube has taken urgent steps to address reports of sexual abuse and disruptions to teaching in schools across the Eastern Cape, saying the safety and well-being of learners will not be compromised.
This follows shocking allegations at St John’s College, where seven teachers have been accused of sexually abusing learners, reportedly resulting in several pregnancies.
The scandal sparked student protests, with learners demanding action and protection for their peers. The Eastern Cape Department of Education has since suspended the teachers pending an investigation, she said.
At JS Skenjana Senior Secondary School, further allegations of sexual harassment surfaced online, prompting the department to appoint an independent investigative team from outside the district. Psychosocial support is also being offered to learners who may have been affected.
Gwarube made it clear that such incidents will not be tolerated and has stressed the legal responsibility of educators and school officials to report abuse.
“We will not allow predators or disruptors to rob children of their right to safe schooling. Any person who abuses their position of trust will face the full force of the law,” she said.
Under South African law, any person who becomes aware of a sexual offence against a child is required to report it to police. Educators are also bound by the Children’s Act to report suspected abuse or neglect. Failing to do so is a criminal offence, Gwarube said.
Gwarube said she has held discussions with Eastern Cape Education MEC Fundile Gade to ensure that these legal obligations are enforced. She has also formally requested the Acting Minister of Police, Professor Firoz Cachalia, to prioritise the investigation into the sexual abuse allegations.
“These recurring reports of sexual abuse in schools underscore the urgent need for a stronger system of detection, reporting, and accountability,” Gwarube said.
She added that broader consultations are planned to develop long-term strategies to combat abuse in the education system.
Gwarube also raised concern over disruptions at schools linked to the Operation Dudula movement. The group has been accused of interfering with teaching and learning in some areas.
“No movement, no matter its name or agenda, has the right to hold children’s education hostage. Those who seek to destabilise schools will be met with the full might of the law,” said the Minister.
She confirmed that joint operations between the education department, police, and provincial authorities will be activated to deal with disruptions swiftly.
Gwarube reaffirmed the government’s commitment to keeping schools safe: “The safety of learners remains a top priority for the 7th Administration,” she said, warning that anyone threatening the integrity of the education system will be dealt with.
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