While there have been three incidents of alleged sexual misconduct in the past few weeks, statistics of the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) do not indicate a general increase in this problem.

However, Education MEC Cameron Dugmore views any such case in an extremely serious light and has vowed that the department will not hesitate in taking the strongest possible action when evidence of sexual misconduct is presented.

Said MEC Dugmore: "I can confirm that the WCED is investigating alleged incidents of rape involving a nine-year-old learner and a general assistant at Mandalay Primary School in April.

"Police have arrested the suspect, who is currently out on bail. We believe the criminal case should take its course. In the meantime, we will not allow the suspect back onto the school premises. I have also ordered an investigation into all aspects of the case, including the school's response to the alleged incidents."

Meanwhile, on Tuesday 10 May 2005, the WCED held an initial disciplinary hearing involving a senior educator at Bishop Lavis High School on a charge of sexual misconduct. The hearing will continue on 25 May.

The department is also investigating an allegation of sexual misconduct involving an educator at Oude Molen High School. The WCED has suspended the educator and is scheduled to hold a disciplinary hearing on Monday 23 May 2005.

For enquiries, contact Gert Witbooi: 082 550 3938, or gwitbooi@pgwc.gov.za.

Gert Witbooi
Media Secretary
Office of the MEC for Education
Western Cape
Tel: 021 467 2523
Fax: 021 425 5689
Visit our website: http://wced.wcape.gov.za

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