The Commission will be engaging in a full investigation regarding the surroundings of the incident, whilst allowing law-enforcement agencies to conclude own processes. The Commission underscores the need for urgent counselling to the whole school so as to attend to the immediate mental health of all learners.

The Commission further wishes to highlight concerns regarding security measures at schools and hostel facilities during load shedding and further notes the importance of filling vacant posts such as hostel supervisors, superintendents and adjacent hostel staff so as to effectively oversee the safety of the learners under their care.

Schools should be regarded as a safe spaces for all children. The Commission is aware of the reality that many girl children face in these environments as they become a space for increased sexual harassment and violence perpetrated by fellow students and sometimes educators. Girl children are subjected to such incidences which not only violates their basic human rights to dignity and equality but also their right to be free from violence and their rights to basic education.

The Commission remains vigilant in safeguarding the rights of learners and underscores the need to ensure that the best interests of learners are taken into account in all matters affecting them. The Commission further encourages the reporting of any and all suspected abuse of children to the nearest local authorities accordingly.

Ends

For further information, contact the SAHRC Provincial Manager, Dr Eileen Carter @ 043 722 7828/072 638 9016 or email on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and Advocacy and Research Officer, Zukiswa N Mqakanya @ 043 722 7828 or email on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.