Gauteng School in Crisis After Grade 2 Learner Reportedly Assaulted

A Johannesburg primary school is at the centre of a growing public outcry after a Grade 2 learner was allegedly sexually assaulted by a staff member. The incident, which took place at Laerskool Dalmondeor, has triggered widespread condemnation and a renewed call for stronger safety measures in South African schools.

According to the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE), the incident happened on May 21, when a general assistant allegedly assaulted the young girl in one of the school’s cloakrooms. The child’s mother reported the incident to Mondeor Police on the same day. However, the school only learned about it nearly a week later—on May 27—when officers arrived to arrest the employee.

The suspect, who is currently in police custody, will be suspended from his duties while the investigation proceeds. Police have confirmed that the matter is under active investigation, and full details are not yet available.

Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane has publicly condemned the incident, calling it a betrayal of trust.

“It is deeply disturbing that a child may have been subjected to such trauma in a school environment—a space meant to nurture and protect,” said Chiloane. “This alleged act is unacceptable, and we expect the law to deal with it swiftly and decisively.”

Chiloane noted that the timing of the incident—during South Africa’s Child Protection Week—made the matter even more distressing.

“This week is meant to shine a light on child safety and rights. Instead, we are faced with a painful reminder of the risks children face, even in environments that should be safe,” he said.

In response to the incident, the GDE has deployed psychosocial support teams to assist the affected learner and her family. Counselling services have also been offered to other students and school staff who may have been traumatised by the news.

Chiloane urged school communities to remain alert and proactive.

“We call on educators, parents, and community members to report any suspicious behaviour. A vigilant community is our strongest line of defence to keep our schools safe.”

The GDE has pledged its full cooperation with law enforcement as the case unfolds and reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on any abuse within educational institutions.

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Sourced:IOL

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