THE Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDE) says it is ready to meet the management of Bergview College in court following the independent school’s threat that it would challenge the provincial government’s decision to shut the institution.

The school has been thrust into the spotlight over complaints that a rape case involving a 7-year old learner at the school has dragged on for several months with no resolution and the principal allegedly refusing to provide police with a DNA sample.

The incident is said to have occurred in October last year while the little girl was waiting for her transport.

The school has remained defiant that its doors will remain open despite a 24-hour notice by the provincial education department to deregister over its handling of the rape incident allegedly on school premises.

The school had sent out a letter to parents noting its intention to challenge the ECDE decision to issue it with a notice with the intention to deregister.

By going to court, the college was doing “exactly what we wanted them to do,” said Vuyiseka Mboxela, spokesperson for Eastern Cape Education MEC Fundile David Gade.

"That's within their right to do and the MEC wanted to go to court and explain the rape allegations against their employee who is said to be a school principal,” she said.

Gade had said how the school handled the incident violated the conditions regarding the safety of learners.

The school did not respond to further requests for comment around a non-educating staff member who had allegedly been suspended over the incident.

The police were to consult the Senior State Prosecutor in the course of this week whereafter the family will be provided with feedback on the matter.

The incident has sparked the rallying call for #justiceforCwecwe with child rights groups and activists demanding urgent action.

The Uyinene Mrwetyana Foundation (UMF) lambasted authorities for how long it has taken to make progress with the case.

UMF’s managing director, Thobeka Msengana said: "It is unacceptable that, nearly six months after this horrific incident, no one has been held accountable. Justice delayed is justice denied. We call on law enforcement authorities to act with urgency and diligence in ensuring that the perpetrator is identified and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. It is appalling that a case of this gravity has not yet resulted in an arrest despite clear leads and critical evidence being available. We demand answers, and more importantly, we demand justice for Cwecwe."

The organisation also condemned the principal for what is claimed was his lack of cooperation with authorities.

"His refusal to take a DNA test to clear his name raises serious concerns about his involvement or knowledge of the crime. Instead of aiding the investigation, he has opted to protect himself through private legal representation, further obstructing the course of justice. Such behavior is suspicious and deeply irresponsible for someone entrusted with the care and safety of young children," Msengana said.

Meanwhile Limpopo police have launched a manhunt for a 58-year-old teacher who allegedly raped a 13-year-old girl from one of the primary schools in Capricorn South Education District.

Police spokesperson Stephen Thakeng the 13-year-old was allegedly raped multiple times between November 2024 and March 7, according to preliminary inquiry.

Another teacher had informed the child’s mother of the incident on March 27.

“A case of rape was registered for further investigation. The suspect pretended to be heading to the police station as he drove off with his car. He said he was in Pretoria's Hammanskraal when he was called, and the phone was turned off,” said Thakeng.

Provincial police commissioner Thembi Hadebe has since directed the police to mobilise resources at their disposal to track and apprehend the wanted teacher.

“This educator who allegedly raped the female learner must be tracked down and apprehended to face the full might of the law. Children are supposed to be nurtured and given the necessary care by those entrusted with this responsibility, such as educators, guardians and parents alike. No child is supposed to be subjected to such inhumane acts,” said Hadebe.

Anyone with information that can lead to his apprehension can contact Detective Lieutenant Colonel Martin Thema of Polokwane FCS Unit on 082 451 7155. Information can also be anonymously shared by contacting Crime Stop number 08600 10111 or alternatively MySAPS App.

Cape Times

#justice-for-cwecwe

We’ll meet in court, MEC tells college in rape saga