By Genevieve Serra
The Education Labour Relations Council (ELRC) has confirmed a shocking 111 cases of sexual harrassment and abuse of pupils by education staff during the period of 2024/2025 nationwide.
ELRC said of the 111 cases, 39 teachers were found guilty.
Western Cape Education Department spokesperson Kerry Mauchline said six teachers were dismissed following seven cases of sexual assault of learners allegedly by teachers and public service staff for the year 2024/2025.
She added it was to be noted that data for 2024/25 was currently being finalised and that the figures include both educators and public service staff, and includes incidents involving that did not occur on school property.
She says: “We obtained data from our Labour Relations directorate on cases involving sexual assault.
“We have seen a decrease in cases in 2024/25 (7 cases*) compared to 2023/24 (15 cases).
“Of the 7 cases, 6 of the staff were dismissed, and one was suspended without pay.
“The WCED has strict protocols in place when an incident of sexual assault, or any form of assault or abuse, occurs at a school.”
Mauchline said with the growing cases, staff were trained on how to manage sensitive cases.