The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Limpopo has accused Education MEC Polly Boshielo of failing to address allegations of teachers sexually abusing learners and nepotism at Burgersfort Laerskool.
DA spokesperson on education, Risham Maharaj, says that parents have reported allegations of sexual misconduct by some teachers and nepotism in the appointment of staff but no action has been taken by the department.
Maharaj also says that a teacher suspected of sexual misconduct committed suicide at the school premises and the learners were not given counselling.
Maharaj is calling on the MEC to suspend the principal while investigations are ongoing.
“MEC for Education Polly Boshielo has to date not addressed serious allegations of child sexual abuse, nepotism and a myriad of other issues at Burgersfort Laerskool. This follows concerns by parents where complaints have been laid with the Department of Education. But to date, none of those have been addressed,” says Maharaj.
Meanwhile, Limpopo Education department spokesperson Tidi Chuene denies that they are folding their arms saying that they are still investigating.
“We were alerted to the matter and other concerns on the conduct of the principal. These were investigated by our labour relations team and there are recommendations for action, that have been made to the HOD for approval in line with our procedures and processes when handling such matters. The outcome will be communicated to stakeholders, first once a decision has been taken,” says Chuene.
