Note Editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Dulandi Leech MPL and Sesotho soundbite by Jafta Mokoena MPL
The Democratic Alliance (DA) welcomes the investigation into the alleged sexual abuse at the New Horizon Independent School in Harrismith. According to a statement released by the department, former learners, alumni networks, community voices and social media accounts suggest a pattern of ongoing sexual offences at the school.
The DA condemns in the strongest possible terms any form of abuse, particularly sexual abuse at schools, which should be a safe space and a place of learning for young, often vulnerable learners.
We have requested the department, through questions in the legislature, to provide an indication of whether monitoring and evaluation mechanisms are in place to ensure all department employees comply with the Children’s Act in reporting suspected sexual abuse and statutory rape cases involving children, as well as the vetting of teachers and staff.
The DA maintains that the best deterrent against abuse in schools is that perpetrators will be caught, tried, and sentenced. The Department must act swiftly in its investigation into the allegations, and where wrongdoing is found, ensure that the perpetrator is held accountable.
The DA will continue monitoring developments closely and will request updates on the matter in the committee dealing with education in the Free State Legislature.