The Mpumalanga Department of Education has suspended a high school principal in Bushbuckridge over serious allegations of sexual harassment but declined to reveal the nature of the alleged misconduct.
The school, based in Casteel Village under the Bushbuckridge Local Municipality, cannot be named at this stage because doing so would directly identify the principal — who has not been charged or convicted in a court of law.
Department confirms matter
Education spokesperson Jasper Zwane confirmed that the principal was placed on precautionary suspension with immediate effect.
“The department has placed the principal on precautionary suspension in light of serious allegations of sexual harassment,” said Zwane.
“This action has been taken to enable an investigation and to safeguard the best interests of learners.”
However, the department declined to describe the specific actions or behaviour that triggered the suspension.
Zwane would only confirm that the matter falls squarely within the department’s zero-tolerance approach to sexual misconduct in schools.
Deeply concerned
“We are deeply disturbed by allegations of this nature,” said Zwane.
“Educators are entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding learners. And they are regarded as in loco parentis while learners are under their care. Any violation of this trust is not only unethical, it is a serious breach of professional and legal obligations.”
Zwane added that the department is acting in terms of the Employment of Educators Act. The Act prescribes mandatory dismissal for educators found guilty of sexual assault. Also if guilty of engaging in sexual relationships with learners, or coercing learners into sexual acts.
“Sexual harassment is a grave offence that falls within this framework. And it carries serious disciplinary consequences,” he said.
Council to probe case
The department has also referred the case to the South African Council for Educators (SACE). The body has the power to deregister any educator found guilty of sexual misconduct. This effectively bans them from ever teaching again in South Africa.
Zwane did not mince his words about the devastating impact of sexual harassment on learners.
“It undermines the integrity of the teaching profession and compromises the future and dignity of our learners,” he said.
“Extensive research shows it causes emotional trauma, poor academic performance, anxiety, depression and, in many cases, it forces girl learners to drop out of school.”
The suspension comes as national outrage grows over incidents of teachers preying on pupils. Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has also come out to condemn sexual misconduct by educators. She emphasised the urgent need for comprehensive vetting of all school staff against the National Register for Sex Offenders.
Minister calls for reforms
Gwarube highlighted the alarming prevalence of such cases. She further called for immediate reforms to ensure learner safety.
Zwane conceded that some cases collapse due to learners withdrawing complaints. This is often out of fear, stigma or community pressure.
“This is why we continue to call on parents, learners and community members to report incidents as soon as possible,” he urged.
“Timely reporting ensures learners receive the necessary psychosocial support. And ensures that perpetrators are held fully accountable.”
The department has appointed the deputy principal to manage the school on an interim basis. It is closely monitoring developments.
“We remain committed to fostering a safe, supportive and enabling learning environment for all learners,” Zwane said.
