North West Department of Education Condemns Alleged Rape Incident at Mafikeng School

The North West Department of Education has been left deeply disturbed by reports of an alleged rape incident involving a Grade 6 girl learner from Thuto Botshelo Primary School in Mafikeng. The incident, which occurred on Thursday, March 7, 2024, allegedly involved four boys from the neighboring Kebonang Secondary School

According to initial reports, the incident took place in the morning behind the Grade R classes of the primary school. Upon learning of the incident, the learner’s parents were notified, and a case was promptly filed with the police by the school authorities. The victim was then taken to Mafikeng Provincial Hospital, where medical examination confirmed that she had been sexually violated.

Expressing outrage and concern, MEC for Education in the North West, Viola Motsumi, called for an urgent and thorough investigation to apprehend the perpetrators. Motsumi condemned the incident in the strongest terms, emphasizing that gender-based violence has no place in schools and violates the fundamental values of society.

Motsumi urged for a collaborative effort between law enforcement agencies, school management, the School Governing Body (SGB), and the wider community to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. She stressed the department’s commitment to supporting both the victim and her family, offering psychological assistance through the Department and Thuthuzela Care Centre.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive issue of gender-based violence and the urgent need for proactive measures to address and prevent such occurrences within educational institutions. As investigations continue, the North West Department of Education reaffirms its unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of learners and creating a conducive learning environment free from violence and intimidation.