A teacher from Boksburg is facing serious consequences following allegations of sexual harassment and inappropriate conduct towards pupils. The Gauteng Education MEC, Matome Chiloane, took immediate action during the School Safety Imbizo held at the Faranani Community Hall in Tsakani, Ekurhuleni on Saturday, 23 November.
The teacher, accused of making sexual advances and using inappropriate sexual language, was instructed not to report to school on Monday, 25 November. Chiloane emphasized that teachers, as role models, must adhere to high standards of behavior. “That teacher must not report to school on Monday. Teachers are seen as role models and should behave as such,” Chiloane stated, confirming that the teacher is under investigation by the Gauteng Department of Education.
The allegations were brought to light during the imbizo, where participants discussed various issues affecting the safety of pupils and staff in schools across Ekurhuleni. Representatives from local schools, organizations, and the South African Police Service (SAPS) shared their concerns, with this event being the second of four regional School Safety Imbizos organized throughout Gauteng this year.
In addition to the allegations against the teacher, other pressing issues were raised, including the removal of security guards from several schools due to budget cuts. Chiloane acknowledged the potential impact of these cuts on school safety but reassured the public that the decision was made to prioritize teacher employment. “We had to do that to keep teachers. No teacher in Gauteng is going to lose their job or have their salary affected. Gauteng needs more teachers due to the growing population,” he explained.
Chiloane emphasized that the imbizos are not merely forums for discussion but are designed to create actionable plans. These imbizos are not talk shops; they help the department develop a working document that can be implemented in schools to improve safety and security,” he said.
The Gauteng Department of Education is committed to addressing critical safety concerns in high-risk schools, and this incident has highlighted the importance of maintaining safe, respectful environments for both students and staff.
