KWAGGAFONTEIN, Mpumalanga – Fear and outrage have gripped the community of Kwaggafontein after a gardener at Fundakwazi Primary School was arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting an 8-year-old learner and several other minors on the school premises.
Parents say the shocking allegations have left families deeply concerned about the safety of children in schools, with many questioning how such incidents could occur under the watch of school authorities.
The accused made his first court appearance last week and remains in custody. He is set to return to court on Friday next week.
One mother of an alleged victim described the emotional toll on her family, saying changes in her daughter’s behaviour initially went unnoticed. “What hurts me the most is that when my child talks, it hurts even more. I wish I was given a chance to ask him why he chose my child. What did I do to you? Why are you hurting my child to that extent?” she said. She added that the police had arrested the suspect, and she had received no follow-up from the principal to date.
Another parent only learned of the incident after the arrest and decided to have her daughter medically examined at a nearby clinic. “When this incident occurred, I found out about it after the accused had been arrested. I also asked my child… She explained everything. It really hurts hearing what she said. So today I came here at the clinic so that she can also be examined,” the parent explained.
Community members expressed widespread anger, with one father highlighting that the abuse does not only affect girls but also boys. “Since my kids are boys who come to the school, I am very concerned because we all know in South Africa this thing doesn’t only affect girl kids but also boys,” he said. He criticised the school’s response, claiming it appeared to side with the perpetrator rather than the children. “This thing has happened under the principal’s guard or the teachers’ guard. So I want the department to take responsibility… and to take further steps so that they can help our kids.”
According to a statement from school authorities, the accused has been placed on precautionary suspension while investigations continue. Internal disciplinary procedures will be initiated, and if found guilty, the individual will be dismissed from his position. His name will also be submitted to the South African Sexual Offenders Register, barring him from working in any similar facilities involving children.
Parents and community leaders are urging greater vigilance, noting that sudden behavioural changes in children can serve as early warning signs of abuse. These may include becoming reckless, distancing themselves from siblings and friends, displaying aggression—particularly towards males—experiencing sleepless nights, or reacting strongly when certain topics are raised.
The incident has sparked renewed calls for urgent action to safeguard learners and ensure accountability within the education system.