Family relieved as teacher faces court

Share current article via FacebookShare current article via PinterestShare current article via WhatsAppShare current article via TwitterShare current article via LinkedInNewsFamily relieved as teacher faces courtBy: Lesiba Dikhoba • 18m agoAdd as a preferred source on GoogleFollow on Google NewsListen to this article-00:00lead-art-block.fullscreen-enterExpandA teacher accused of sexually assaulting a pupil appeared in the Protea Magistrates Court on Thursday, 22 October. MEC says schools must be safe havens for kidsTHE family of a nine-year-old girl allegedly sexually assaulted by a teacher is relieved they might finally get justice.

This after the suspect appeared in the Protea Magistrates Court in Soweto on Thursday, 22 October, but the case was postponed to Thursday, 29 October.

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His name is being withheld to protect the identity of the victim.

A relative told Daily Sun the family had been struggling to get answers while waiting for the case to move forward.

The relative said the family repeatedly contacted authorities about opening a case but felt they were being delayed.

“We even have proof that we were always the ones calling to open a case. But the case would always be postponed to the next day. According to them, they were still investigating,” the relative said.

The family eventually turned to social media to raise awareness about the matter.

The relative said they were very relieved that the suspect appeared in court. But they’re concerned about the child’s well-being and her return to school.

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The relative said the family met a social worker and that the school was finally offering assistance to help the kid return to learning when she’s ready.

Meanwhile, Gauteng Education MEC Lebohang Maile called for schools to act swiftly when allegations of sexual abuse involving pupils emerge.

Maile said schools must be safe havens for kids and that teachers, school management teams and school governing bodies must report problems to the Department of Education immediately.

He acknowledged that schools faced challenges in dealing with such matters and said the department was working on preventative measures, including checking teachers’ backgrounds before they are appointed.

Maile said disciplinary proceedings against the teacher will continue alongside the criminal case.

He also urged the South African Council for Educators to move swiftly with investigations and disciplinary processes involving teachers.

A South African journalist passionate about telling stories that inform, engage and make an impact. He covers breaking news, crime, courts, and community issues, with a focus on producing accurate, compelling journalism that resonates with readers.

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