Gauteng teacher dismissed for sexual misconduct at Sunward Park High School

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) on Thursday confirmed the dismissal of teacher from Sunward Park High School in Boksburg, Ekurhuleni, after allegations that he sexually assaulted and verbally abused female learners at the school.

These incidents are alleged to have taken place on school grounds and outside the premises since 2024, with the most recent incident having allegedly taken place in August 2025.

The teacher was suspended on August 28, following a complaint lodged by parents at the school on August 27, 2025. He was subsequently dismissed in absentia at a disciplinary hearing Thursday. He was employed at the school following his appointment by the school governing body.

GDE spokesperson Steve Mabona stated that the teacher was found guilty of contravening the Code of Professional Ethics and was subsequently dismissed.

"The educator’s charges included three counts of sexual assault and one count of verbal misconduct, which have been described as disgraceful, improper and unbecoming behaviour not expected of an educator directed at female learners at the school," Mabona said.

"This decision will be communicated to the South African Council for Educators (SACE) with a formal recommendation that the educator’s name be permanently removed from the SACE register. This step would revoke the said educator’s teaching accreditation, preventing employment at any school or educational institution in South Africa in the future."

Meanwhile, Gauteng Education member of the executive council (MEC) Matome Chiloane said the department strongly condemned any form of violence, abuse, or misconduct by educators.

"Teachers are entrusted with the safety, care, and development of learners, and any breach of that trust is treated with the utmost seriousness. Schools must be safe and supportive spaces where learners can thrive academically and personally without fear of harm,” said Chiloane.

“The Department will provide counselling and other support services to the affected learners. Furthermore, the GDE urges learners, parents, and members of the public to never cease in reporting any misconduct by educators to school management, district offices, or through the Department’s dedicated hotline and WhatsApp lines to ensure that such matters are addressed swiftly and appropriately,” said MEC Chiloane.

Mabona urged learners to report issues of sexual harassment or assault of any form to Childline on 116 and to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG). "Reach out to SADAG on 0800 567 567 or 0800 456 789. Learners can also reach out to the GDE by contacting 0800 000 789 or WhatsApp us on 060 891 0361."

The department also expressed sadness and conveyed condolences to the family of Keitumetse Mashego, a former Grade 12 learner at Hoërskool Silverton who was killed in a deadly hostage standoff in Mamelodi East on Tuesday evening.

Mabona said: "This heartbreaking event has sent shockwaves through the school, the province, and beyond. The timing of this tragedy is particularly distressing, as Grade 12 learners were in the midst of their 2025 September trial examinations, with final exams only five weeks away. The Department recognises the added emotional strain this incident places on matric learners and the wider school community during this critical academic period."

Mabona added that in an effort to support learners, educators, and staff, the GDE’s Psycho-Social Support team has been dispatched to Silverton High School to provide immediate counselling and emotional support.

"These services will continue for as long as necessary to ensure that those affected receive appropriate care. In addition, the Department is working closely with school leadership and neighbouring schools in the area to ensure that this tragic incident does not adversely affect the academic progress, safety, or wellbeing of other learners.

We extend our deepest condolences to the learner’s family, friends, and the entire Silverton High School community during this incredibly difficult time. The GDE urges the public to respect the privacy of the bereaved family as they mourn this devastating loss."

Word from the school described Keitumetse as a vibrant, outspoken young leader – actively involved in school activities and extramural programmes – who showed a keen interest in the development of the school and in the growth of others; a true Silvie learner

This is a highlight of South Africa's continuous struggle against the scourge of women and children abuse, domestic violence, gender based violence and femicide.

The Star