Johannesburg – Lufhereng Secondary School in Soweto, Gauteng, celebrated for its academic excellence, is now grappling with a deeply disturbing scandal. A 45-year-old teacher at the school has been removed from his post following allegations of rape made by a Grade 11 pupil.
The Gauteng Department of Education confirmed that the alleged incident took place last Thursday, 13 February 2025, at the teacher's residence. The news has sent shockwaves through the school community and sparked outrage across the province.
Education MEC (Member of the Executive Council) Matome Chiloane expressed his profound dismay at the allegations. "I am deeply disturbed and devastated by this incident," he stated. "A police case has been opened against the educator, and police are investigating the circumstances surrounding this allegation accordingly."
In response to the allegations, the department has taken swift action. "As an immediate step, the educator has been precautionarily removed from the school," Chiloane announced. "This measure is taken to prioritise the safety and well-being of the affected learner and the broader school community. The department will also ensure that all due processes are followed to address this matter appropriately."
Lufhereng Secondary School has earned a stellar reputation, most recently being recognised as the best-performing school in Gauteng. The school achieved a remarkable 100% matric pass rate for the class of 2024, with an impressive 97% of learners qualifying for bachelor's degree studies. This achievement makes the current allegations all the more shocking and disheartening.
MEC Chiloane emphasised the gravity of the situation and the responsibility of educators. "Educators are custodians of education and youth development in our schools," he said. "As such, they should not engage in actions that could potentially traumatise the young minds that they are teaching, especially such injustices that continue to plague our democratic society."
The department has pledged to provide comprehensive support to the alleged victim. A psycho-social support unit has been mobilised to provide trauma counselling to the learner. In addition, the department has committed to arranging academic assistance to minimise any disruption to her education.
"We are profoundly devastated by this serious allegation against this educator," Chiloane reiterated. "As the department, we vehemently condemn such actions in our schools and society at large. We call upon law enforcement agencies to handle this case with the sensitivity it deserves."
The MEC also affirmed the department's unwavering commitment to creating a safe and supportive learning environment for all learners. "We remain committed to fostering a safe and supportive learning environment for all learners," Chiloane stated. "Any form of alleged misconduct by educators will not be tolerated."
The incident has prompted widespread calls for a thorough and transparent investigation. Community leaders and parents have expressed their anger and concern, demanding that justice be served. The case is expected to draw significant public attention as it progresses through the legal system.
The Gauteng Department of Education has pledged its full cooperation with law enforcement agencies in the investigation. The department has also vowed to review its policies and procedures to ensure that all possible measures are in place to protect learners from abuse and exploitation.
