Three Bloemfontein teachers suspended after sexual harassment allegations. Image: Sowetan Live.
(The Post News)– Earlier this week, Bloemfontein was shaken after a former St. Bernard High School learner posted on social media, accusing several teachers of sexual harassment. The post sparked outrage and prompted more alleged victims to share similar experiences.
Free State Department of Education spokesperson Howard Ndaba reported that one of the teachers named had previously been found guilty of similar misconduct. “There are three teachers implicated. One was dismissed last year after being found guilty of sexual harassment in November,” he explained.
Ndaba noted that swift action is challenging when learners remain silent, stressing the importance of reporting. He urged pupils to speak to the principal, the circuit manager, or the district office. He said that the department only found out about the matter on social media. Ndaba further noted that an investigation has been launched and they will face disciplinary actions if found guilty.
He reassured learners that they will be protected when reporting misconduct, pointing out that schools have policies and support teams dedicated to handling such cases. Ndaba also appealed to parents to play an active role in addressing these issues, emphasizing that ensuring school safety requires collective responsibility. “This is not something the department can resolve on its own. We need parents to join hands with us; school safety is a societal matter,” he concluded.
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