Removal of 39 Teachers Found Guilty of Sexual Misconduct Against Learners
By Karabo Marifi
Childline KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) has called for the permanent removal of 39 teachers found guilty of sexual misconduct against learners, exposing serious flaws in South Africa’s education system. The shocking findings, revealed by the Education Labour Relations Council (ELRC), show that most of these educators are from KwaZulu-Natal, followed by Gauteng. This revelation has sparked widespread concern about learner safety and the effectiveness of current vetting processes in schools.
A Betrayal of Trust in South African Schools
The ELRC’s 2024/2025 financial year report highlighted that 111 cases of sexual misconduct by teachers were reported nationwide, with 39 educators found guilty. Seven were acquitted, and the remaining cases lacked sufficient evidence to proceed. KwaZulu-Natal recorded the highest number of guilty verdicts, followed closely by Gauteng, while Limpopo had the fewest reported cases. These statistics have raised alarm bells about the safety of learners in schools, which are meant to be safe havens for growth and learning.
Adeshni Naicker, Director of Childline KZN, condemned the actions of the guilty teachers, describing their behaviour as a gross violation of trust. “These findings are not only a betrayal of the trust placed in educators but also a violation of the rights of our children. School should be a safe place where learners can grow, thrive and feel safe. The abuse of authority by educators who are tasked to protect children is inexcusable,” Naicker said. She has urged authorities to ensure these educators are barred from ever working with children again, advocating for stronger measures to protect learners.
Gaps in the Vetting System Exposed
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has acknowledged that the current vetting system is not enough to prevent sexual misconduct in schools. Elijah Mhlanga, DBE spokesperson, explained that while vetting is conducted, it does not guarantee long-term accountability. “Some people get vetted, once they are in the system, and then get involved in criminal activity. So vetting is not a guarantee whatsoever,” Mhlanga said. He stressed the need for a cultural shift among educators, urging them to prioritise their duty to protect and nurture learners.
“We need to focus on changing the mindset. Remind the adult that they have a duty to protect the young person that is in front of them, that they are supposed to educate and nurture,” he added.
The DBE has faced criticism for gaps in coordination between key stakeholders, such as the ELRC and the South African Council for Educators (SACE). A lack of information-sharing between these bodies has allowed some offenders to slip through the cracks.
For instance, teachers found guilty of misconduct are not always immediately removed from the SACE register, potentially enabling them to seek employment elsewhere. This fragmentation in legislation and oversight has been identified as a significant barrier to ensuring learner safety.
Child Protection Month 2025 Highlights Urgent Need for Action
The issue of learner safety took centre stage during the launch of Child Protection Month on 11 May 2025 in Thaba Nchu, Free State. Hosted by the Department of Social Development (DSD), the event brought together government officials, non-profit organisations, and child welfare advocates to address pressing concerns about child safety in South Africa. The recent findings about teacher misconduct were among the key issues discussed, with calls for stronger policies to protect children from abuse in educational settings.
The DSD emphasised the importance of creating safe environments for children, both at home and in schools. The event also highlighted the need for community involvement in safeguarding children, with initiatives aimed at raising awareness about children’s rights and responsibilities. Childline KZN, a key partner at the event, reiterated its commitment to advocating for child safety and providing trauma support to victims of abuse.
Calls for Systemic Change and Accountability
The alarming rise in teacher misconduct has prompted calls for systemic reforms to address the root causes of the problem. Experts argue that vetting processes must be strengthened, with regular checks on educators’ backgrounds even after they are employed. Additionally, there is a growing demand for mandatory training on child protection and ethical conduct for all teachers.
Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has vowed to take decisive action to ensure schools remain safe spaces for learners. Speaking at a recent press briefing, Gwarube stressed the importance of cross-referencing all educators against the National Register for Sex Offenders to prevent predators from entering the education system. She also called for harsher penalties for those found guilty of abusing their positions of authority.
In Gauteng, the Department of Education has already taken steps to address the issue, with 42 reported cases of sexual misconduct in the province during the 2024/2025 financial year. Of these, 19 cases were finalised, resulting in 11 dismissals, four acquittals, and two withdrawals. The department has also introduced stricter vetting for all school-based employees, including volunteers and contractors, to minimise risks to learners.
The Role of Communities and Parents
Childline KZN has urged parents, communities, and schools to work together to create a culture of accountability and vigilance. Naicker emphasised the importance of educating children about their rights, encouraging them to speak out about abuse without fear of retribution. “Children must feel empowered to report any form of misconduct, and adults must listen and act swiftly to protect them,” she said.
The organisation has also called for increased investment in counselling and support services for victims of abuse. Many learners who experience sexual misconduct suffer long-term trauma, which can affect their academic performance and mental health. Childline KZN provides free counselling services and a 24-hour helpline (0800 055 555) for children and families in need of support.
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