Outrage at way school has dealt with rape of pupil, 8

PARENTS at a Johannesburg primary school where a girl was raped, allegedly by fellow pupils, are outraged by the school’s handling of the matter.

The school‚ in Randburg‚ held a meeting with the parents this week‚ following an inquiry into the conduct of three schoolboys‚ aged 12 to 14.

The rape came to light after the victim‚ 8‚ was examined by a doctor.

The incident apparently took place on school grounds on April 4 and a case of rape was opened the following day‚ police spokesperson Captain Walter Spencer said.

Parents of other pupils say the school communicated too little‚ too late. “The school held a meeting but nothing was resolved. It seemed like the school was sweeping the whole thing under the rug‚” one parent said. Another parent said the information the school provided on the matter was vague.

“I don’t feel confident about the safety of my children at the school. If I had found out sooner I could have educated my children on what’s happening.

“My children are hearing things at school‚ other children are talking about it and we don’t know what teachers are telling our children.”

Gauteng education spokesperson Oupa Bodibe said: “It must be noted that the matter is sub judice and involves minors, and as such we need to treat it with the sensitivity it deserves.”

On Tuesday the department said that two of the accused boys were recommended for expulsion.

A criminal case was postponed July‚ Spencer said. — TMG to