The Eastern Cape Department of Education MEC Fundile Gade has strongly condemned the rape of a five-year-old pupil, which allegedly took place while the girl was travelling home from Emdeni Junior Secondary school in Bizana on Thursday.
While the exact details of the incident are still unclear, a case has been opened with the South African Police Services (SAPS).
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In a statement, MEC Gade expressed his shock and dismay at the brutal and inhumane rape of a child, emphasising the need for a moral reset in our communities.
The department has already activated a district team to visit the school and the family, and a thorough investigation will be conducted to establish the facts surrounding the matter.
MEC Gade assured the public that if anyone is found to have negligently acted leading to this incident, appropriate action will be taken. The department is committed to holding the perpetrator accountable and ensuring justice for the victim.
Furthermore, MEC Gade expressed his concern about the fact that elders, who are supposed to protect children, were involved in this incident.
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He emphasised that such acts not only harm the physical well-being of the child but also strip them of their dignity. The MEC called for the swift and thorough investigation by law enforcement and urged them to expedite the process to ensure that the perpetrator is brought to justice.
The Eastern Cape Department of Education has also stated that it will provide psychosocial support to the impacted families, classmates, and the school. This support is crucial in helping them cope with the emotional trauma caused by this heinous crime.
