The spokesperson for the Free State Department of Education, Howard Ndaba, confirms that a grade 12 learner has been identified as the alleged perpetrator in the sexual misconduct which occurred in late 2020.

Whilst Ndaba declines to elaborate on the details surrounding the incident, he confirms the situation became contentious when unhappy learners held a silent protest at the school this week. They were demonstrating against what they deem to be inaction by the school and the department on the issue.

Ndaba stresses the reality is that the incident was only brought to the attention of the school in March, despite it occurring last year “however, an investigation has since been launched and a hearing was held on Wednesday 22 April for the alleged perpetrator. We are doing all our best, but we need to ensure that we follow due processes,” says Ndaba.

The grade 12 learner, alleged to be the perpetrator, has been suspended from both the hostel and the school.

On Wednesday, the St Michael’s School Governing Body (SGB) released a statement in an attempt to quell the tension brewing at the school this week.

“We are aware of the concerns raised by some of the learners in the matter and appreciate that this has been done in a peaceful manner. I can assure the St. Michael’s community that all that could be done has been done to maintain the integrity of the process that had been initiated.

"The guidelines in our Code of Conduct have been adhered to, and legal counsel was also sought. The learner accused of the alleged misconduct is no longer at school or in hostel. We are actively embarking on a process to support those who may have been affected, in providing counselling and support,” says Ruth Govender, the Chairperson of the SGB.

Ndaba tells OFM News more learners are coming forth with information, indicating that this one incident, could just be the tip of the iceberg in the matter.

OFM News