The department of education in the Eastern Cape is conducting a screening programme to ensure that all teachers meet the requirements of the Children’s Act of 2005.
The issue was thrust into the spotlight after a Queenstown Girls’ High School male teacher, Chesline Jekels, was outed for alleged sexual abuse of learners.
Fundile Gade, the MEC for education in the Eastern Cape, said he was shocked to learn that a school-appointed teacher in the Chris Hani west education area had allegedly sexually assaulted a high school learner from Queenstown.
According to Gade, the vetting process is for all employees who are working with children.
“The department is conducting the vetting process wherein employees working with children are vetted against the national sex offenders register held by the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development as well as the Child Protection Register kept by the Department of Social Development,” said Gade.
According to him, if an employee is determined to be unfit, their employment should be terminated after the proper labour process has been completed.
Alleged offender suspended
He said: “Additionally, the learner is receiving support from the education social support services unit (ESSS).
“The psychosocial services provided by ESSS to the learner include counselling and debriefing sessions.”
Since then, the school has suspended the alleged offender pending the conclusion of the department’s investigation.
The chairperson of the school governing body served the educator with a letter of suspension, which Sunday World has seen.
“In light of the most recent social media allegations against you and due to the demands of a variety of stakeholders at a meeting held at Queenstown Girls’ High School today, it has been decided by the GHS school governing body to suspend you from your duties with immediate effect and until further notice.
“Your suspension is with full pay. At no time during the suspension period may you be present on the school property nor be in contact with any learners of the school.”
