Joburg special needs school rocked by rape allegations, ill-discipline

Gauteng education spokesperson Steve Mabona said the department is aware of two alleged rape incidents at the Johannesburg-based school.

"The most recent incident took place on Thursday, 26 October, where a Grade 12 boy learner allegedly raped a Grade 4 boy learner at the school boarding facility.

"A previous incident took place on 14 February 2023, where a Grade 9 boy learner allegedly raped a Grade 8 girl learner," said Mabona.

He said cases of sexual assault were opened with the police for both incidents, and the suspects were suspended.

Mabona confirmed the Grade 12 pupil had been temporarily accommodated at a different school to write his final examinations.

"Our officials have been in constant communication with the parents of all affected learners, providing necessary support," he said.

The department is also concerned about ill-discipline and maladministration.

"This includes an incident where a pupil was hospitalised after fellow pupils unlocked his electric wheelchair, causing him to lose control and sustain severe injuries," Mabona said.

"The incident is alleged to have taken place after school when the learners were reportedly playing around on the school premises. 

"The learner in question has unfortunately not returned to school, and is recuperating at home, while the other learners were taken through necessary disciplinary processes."

Mabona says another pupil allegedly brought space cookies to school and shared them with his fellow pupils.

"Educators reported this incident after noticing learners displaying strange behavior. Subsequently, about 8 learners tested positive for drug usage, and the perpetrator was suspended."

The former school principal faced several charges, but was cleared by the Education Labour Relations Council.

Mabona said the department is working to come to an amicable solution on her return.

"In light of all these events, it is paramount to launch an investigation that will probe the circumstances of these incidents and hold possible individuals accountable.

"This action by the department will be concurrent with police investigations into sensitive matters occurring at the school. We are hopeful the police will handle these cases with the sensitivity they deserve."

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