On October 18 2024, we published an article in which we shared a story about a play that deals with the disturbing phenomenon of teachers who commit statutory rape amongst learners; this artistic interpretation is called “Umbhobho: The red pipe”.
At almost the same time, a 7 year old girl was allegedly being violated on her school premises, bringing to awful clarity the stark reality of what must gravely concern all of us.
ASSITEJ SA joins thousands of voices around the country who are asking for justice for Cwecwe. We are gravely concerned about learners being assaulted by the very adults who should be taking responsibility for their wellbeing. Schools should be safe spaces. We call upon the departments and agencies concerned to do better and to fully investigate and conclude this case, as soon as possible. We also ask for psychological and social support for Cwecwe and her family at this time. We commend Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube’s call for action to be taken and for a whole of society approach to be sought. ASSITEJ SA is committed to being part of the solution and contributing in whatever ways we can to fighting this scourge.
We are aware that the government has ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Children, as well as the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child. Towards this end we wish to spotlight articles Article 19 and Article 16 respectively and remind the relevant government agencies of their commitments. Government needs to demonstrate its commitment to Protecting children, Providing services for children and ensuring their Participation on all matters that concern them.
We are so sorry, Cwecwe, that you have had to experience this gruesome violation at a place that should have been a place of safety. We commend you and your family for your courage to speak back to power. We would like to assure you, and indeed every child in South Africa, that we will not rest until justice has been served on this matter.
ASSITEJ SA is currently involved in projects aimed at addressing gender violence toward children using the arts as a tool across five provinces. We are committed to ensuring that we do everything in our power to shift the attitudes and mindsets that are responsible for this kind of atrocity.
Cwecwe, you will not be a statistic!
– Statement from ASSITEJ SA Board. ASSITEJ SA has been exploring the topic of Gender-based violence and abuse through the Girl Power programme funded by the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, and has been collaborating with Child Protection Fora in 5 provinces to create safer environments for children and young people.
– If you need to get help, consider contacting:
- ChildLine on 116 or chat on https://chat.childlinesa.org.za/chat
- Tears Foundation on 010 590 5920
- When children are hurt or molested by teachers, report the incident to the South African Council of Educations on ethics@sace.org.za
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