TimesLive reports that the DA is concerned that of the 191 cases of sexual misconduct reported to the SA Council of Educators (Sace) in the 2021/22 period, only 23 disciplinary proceedings were instituted and only four educators were struck off the roll.

The political party noted that the number of cases of sexual misconduct reported to Sace had risen dramatically from 92 in 2019/20 and 169 in 2020/21. Basic education minister Angie Motshekga revealed these figures in an answer to a written parliamentary question by the DA. The DA’s Desiree van der Walt said: “The DA finds it very concerning that Sace only instituted 23 disciplinary proceedings last year – a mere 12% of the reported cases of sexual misconduct. Of these, 19 educators were found guilty of sexual misconduct, yet only four were struck off the roll indefinitely.” According to Sace, some of the cases were closed due to lack of evidence to substantiate the allegations, deliberate unavailability of complainants to assist with the investigation or disciplinary proceedings, and witnesses refusing to co-operate with the council.  “The complainants’ reluctance to co-operate with Sace in investigating and disciplining their alleged abusers indicates a perceived bias against the victims of abuse. Sace must take responsibility for this perception and ensure that disciplinary hearings are environments where alleged victims and witnesses feel safe, are protected from further trauma, and where evidence and testimony from both parties are examined in an objective and sensitive manner,” Van der Walt stated.

• Read the full original of the report in the above regard by Ernest Mabuza at TimesLive
• Lees ook, 191 onderwysers van seksuele oortredings beskuldig, by Maroela Media

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