MATETIELE- The disturbing allegations of rape has surfaced involving a 7 year old pupil at Bergview College in Matatiele near King Edward High School, this incident took place on 14 October 2024.
According to reports the girl child was allegedly raped by a teacher at the school, resulting in a two-week hospitalization.
The mother of the child Thandeka Mdudi Mtshizana said, “The child went out happily to school and came back with a bloodied tracksuit bottom, school Principal told me not to talk about this because it would ruin his school’s reputation. However, it was his staff member who sent my child alone to that place. No one was arrested at the time and my child’s injuries were severe her buttocks were torn open like a hole in a tissue roll. I will never forgive.”
In a shocking turn of events, the child’s mother claims she was instructed by the school to keep the incident quiet, citing concerns that it would damage the school’s reputation. Undeterred, the mother sought assistance from the principal only to be met with criticism being labeled ‘unprofessional‘ for reporting the incident.
“My child was in excruciating pain and we spent a full two weeks in the hospital due to the severity of their injuries, despite their pain, I tried to stay strong for her sake. I remember cleaning after her and smiling so she wouldn’t feel scared or ashamed. But then she looked up at her dad and said, ‘Dad, please hug me, it hurts,” said Thandeka.
Tragically, the mother who was reportedly three months pregnant, suffered a miscarriage following the ordeal.
Eastern Cape Daily News understood that this matter needs serious attention and we reached to Eastern Cape Department of Education spokesperson Malibongwe Mtima, “The department is aware of the alleged rape incident at Bergview College and has instituted an investigation.”
Mtima added, “We have instituted an investigation on the matter to test the allegations, in the meantime the child/victim has been visited and is receiving psychosocial support from the district and sister departments.”
The incident occurred on 14 October 2024 but was only reported to the school’s district office in mid-November. It should be noted that this is an independent school accounting to the board of directors, not the department.
However, the department is subsidizing it and intervening to ensure a fair and transparent process in resolving the matter.
photograph: supplied
