CALLS FOR HARSH PUNISHMENT

Minister of Basic Education Angie Motshekga has condemned the rape of a 12-year old learner in Bulwer, KwaZulu-Natal.

The Grade 7 learner was allegedly raped on her way home to fetch the mask she had forgotten on her way to school.

A 17-year-old has been arrested for the rape.

“Rape is a crime whose perpetrators deserve the stiffest punishment. This rape of a learner once again shines the light on the scourge of gender-based violence (GBV) ripping our communities apart. We reiterate our profound sadness and anguish over this painful and shameful event. GBV is a profound human rights violation with major social and developmental impacts for survivors, as well as their families, communities and society more broadly,” said Motshekga

She commended the police for the swift arrest.

“The department will continue to ensure that the learner who is a minor receives the necessary psycho-social support from the District Auxiliary Support Services and her identity is protected as she comes to terms with this painful and regrettable ordeal,” Motshekga said.

Last month, a Grade 12 learner was allegedly raped at knife-point on her way from school by an unknown suspect in Bochum, Limpopo. The learner attends school at a neighbouring village that is about 7km from her home and walks through the bushes to get there. She and other learners have been walking to school since classroom learning resumed on June 8 as their government-funded scholar transport has not been available.