A nine-year-old learner at Busisiwe Primary School in Zola, Soweto, has stopped attending classes after alleging she was raped by a teacher. The Gauteng Education Department confirmed it has dispatched officials to investigate the claim following protests by parents and community members outside the school on 20 October 2026.
The victim’s aunt told Cape Flats News that the child stopped going to school around 8 October and disclosed the alleged assault to family members a day later. “She didn’t want to go to school. That’s when she explained that a day before she requested to go to the toilet during class and the teacher followed her and, upon arrival at school toilets, raped her,” the aunt said.
Jabulani police station commander Brigadier Lefa Tsotetsi confirmed that a case has been opened. “The law also says we should only communicate with the complainant; the complainant will be the one who chooses to speak to you,” he said.
Gauteng Education MEC Lebogang Maile stated that the department is awaiting a detailed report from the investigation before taking further action. “I will be receiving that report tonight, after which we will make a determination. This is a sensitive matter, and it has to be dealt with the sensitivity that it deserves,” Maile said during a media briefing.
The protest outside Busisiwe Primary School saw parents demanding urgent action and greater accountability. The Gauteng Education Department emphasised that the matter is under investigation and cautioned against speculation as it could affect the legal process. Maile’s office visited the school to meet with staff and community representatives.
Earlier this year, the department investigated similar sexual misconduct allegations at another Soweto school, Curtis Nkondo School, indicating ongoing concerns about learner safety in the area’s schools. The Busisiwe Primary School case remains distinct, and no formal charges, arrests, or disciplinary outcomes have been publicly confirmed at this time.
The identity of the teacher allegedly involved has not been disclosed, and the Gauteng Education Department has not yet announced any disciplinary measures. Community members remain anxious over the safety of learners and are calling for improved protections and swift justice.
Cape Flats News will continue to monitor official updates and police progress, reporting any new developments as the investigation advances.