The teacher is recovering in hospital after she was allegedly attacked by a learner with a panga. Police are investigating charges of attempted murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances and housebreaking.

Nolwandle Mdleleni, 62, an educator from Teto Secondary School in Thabong, was allegedly attacked at her home in Dagbreek on Wednesday, 23 September, shortly after returning from work.  Police seized the panga allegedly used in the attack.

The teacher apparently arrived home at about 12:40 and noticed her door had been tampered with and was slightly open. She was confronted outside her residence by an attacker wearing a balaclava, who repeatedly stabbed her on the head and hands.

During the struggle, Mdleleni managed to remove the balaclava and see the attacker’s face before he fled. The attacker demanded money and robbed her of her bank card and R350 in cash. The card was subsequently used twice to make purchases of R110 and R220 on the same day.

Free State department of education spokesperson Howard Ndaba said Mdleleni had occasionally given the learner odd jobs, including cleaning her yard, to help him financially. She had also taught the learner history at one stage, although she did not know the teenager’s age.

“We are deeply disturbed and unequivocally condemn the reported attack on the educator,” said Maboya. “We condemn in the strongest possible terms incidents of this nature. As a department, we still believe violence against educators can never be justified and has no place in our schools, homes or communities.”

“Our thoughts and prayers are with her, her family, colleagues, as well as learners during this difficult time. We wish her a speedy recovery. We believe an attack on an educator is an attack on the values of education.

“We are aware of reports and allegations circulating regarding the identity of the perpetrator. However, the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the identity and involvement of any alleged perpetrator, remain the subject of an active police investigation.”

“We therefore ask the public to allow the investigative process to unfold and to refrain from speculation whilst law enforcement authorities establish the full facts of the matter.”

The education department and police have appealed to the public to refrain from circulating photographs, videos, personal information and unverified claims about the attack.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame dg

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