Photo for illustration. (Photo: iStock)
The department of education in the Free State has launched an investigation after an 18-year-old learner from the Thiboloha School for the Deaf in the Thabo Mofutsanyana district was allegedly assaulted there last week.
According to dr. Mantlhake Julia Maboya, the MEC of education in the province, said the alleged incident took place on Tuesday between 16:20 and 17:00.
According to the preliminary investigation, it apparently happened in front of two boarding parents and a teacher.
The school’s clinic treated the learner immediately after the incident.
Maboya says a case has already been lodged with the police and according to him the department has acted decisively.
“The case was formally referred for investigation to the labor relations department by the circuit manager’s office on Thursday. Statements from the two boarding parents and the teacher were obtained and the school clinic’s medical assessment was obtained as part of the investigation. The learner’s parent was fully informed of her rights, including the right to file a criminal complaint with the police.”
Maboya emphasizes that the school and the department will cooperate fully with the police’s investigation.
“Psychosocial support was immediately summoned to the school. A professional counseling team will also be sent to the school to provide trauma counseling and ongoing support to the learner concerned upon her return to school. A safeguarding review meeting will also be convened to assess the learner’s wellbeing and ensure that all necessary safeguards are in place.”
Maboya says he is deeply troubled by allegations of violence against one of the learners.
“The purpose of the school is to help, protect, nurture and educate those with special needs, not to harm them. A full investigation is underway and strict action will be taken against anyone held responsible,” says Maboya.
The department emphasized its commitment to the safety and well-being of all learners, especially learners with special needs.
Maboya appeals to anyone with information to come forward to help with the investigation.