Students at St John’s College in Mthatha have come forward with serious allegations of abuse, accusing some teachers of inappropriate conduct and coercion. The pupils allege that female students were sexually abused and, in some instances, forced to expose their stomachs. The reports have triggered urgent calls for investigation and intervention from parents and the wider community. The Eastern Cape Department of Education has since released an official statement, confirming that they have prioritised the matter and launched an immediate investigation.
What Happened
The allegations surfaced when several female students broke their silence, describing incidents of St John’s College abuse that they claim had been ongoing for some time. Students reported that teachers used their positions of authority to intimidate female pupils, creating an environment of fear and silence.
One student bravely voiced her experience:
“Many of the girls have been silently abused by their teachers, but now this will stop because we, the students, are no longer willing to endure the abuse.”
According to learners, some girls fled the school premises in desperation to protect themselves. Parents were then called in to intervene after receiving alarming accounts from their children. Pupils also stressed that no student should be coerced into exposing their bodies, saying that such actions violate their dignity, privacy, and right to safety.
Official Response
The Eastern Cape Department of Education has confirmed that it is treating the matter with urgency. In an official statement, the department said it “prioritises the protection of all learners and has initiated an immediate investigation into these claims.”
The department further urged anyone with information to report incidents confidentially through its toll-free hotline: 080 121 2570. Officials also assured parents and learners that decisive action will be taken against any perpetrators, while support services will be made available to affected pupils.
Education experts note that this response is crucial in demonstrating accountability and restoring public trust in the schooling system.
For broader context, see Crime Reports in Eastern Cape.
Community Impact
The allegations have shaken the Mthatha community, with parents and leaders expressing anger, disappointment, and concern for the safety of learners. Many parents have demanded stronger protective measures in schools to ensure that pupils are not vulnerable to abuse by those entrusted with their care.
Community leaders argue that such claims, if proven true, could irreparably damage trust between schools, parents, and learners. Schools are meant to be safe environments where education, growth, and empowerment thrive, not spaces of fear or exploitation.
This case has also reignited national conversations about the protection of learners in South African schools, with advocacy groups outlining that more stringent monitoring systems, safe reporting channels, and psychological support services are urgently needed.
Wider Context
Abuse in schools is not a new issue in South Africa. Reports of teacher misconduct and the failure of school systems to protect students have surfaced across various provinces in recent years. Education rights activists stress that each case further highlights systemic weaknesses in the safeguarding of children within the country’s education system.
The Children’s Act and the South African Schools Act require schools to provide a safe environment for learners, but gaps in implementation and enforcement often leave students exposed. Experts say this case could serve as a test of accountability for the provincial Department of Education and the school’s management.
FAQ
What are the allegations at St John’s College?
Students allege that female pupils were sexually abused by teachers and coerced into exposing their stomachs.
Have authorities responded?
Yes. The Eastern Cape Department of Education released a statement confirming it has launched an immediate investigation, prioritises learner protection, and will take decisive action against perpetrators.
How can incidents be reported?
The department has urged anyone with information to report incidents confidentially via its toll-free hotline: 080 121 2570.
