By Teboho Moloi
QWAQWA – The Free State Department of Education has launched both criminal and internal investigations following the alleged assault of an 18-year old female learner at Thiboloha School for the Deaf and Blind, an institution dedicated to caring for some of the province’s most vulnerable children.
The incident allegedly occurred on 2 June and involves a staff member who is now the subject of a criminal assault case opened with the South African Police Service (SAPS).
The department confirmed that disciplinary processes have also been initiated. The matter was formally referred to the Labour Relations Division through the Circuit Manager’s Office on 4 June for further investigation.
According to preliminary reports, the alleged assault was witnessed by two house parents on duty and a teacher.
Free State MEC for Education, Dr Julia Maboya, condemned the incident in the strongest terms, describing the allegations as deeply disturbing and unacceptable.
“I am outraged and profoundly distressed by allegations of violence against one of our most vulnerable learners. Thiboloha School exists to protect, nurture and educate children with special needs, not to harm them,” said Maboya.
“Your dignity, safety and healing are our immediate priority. The department has zero tolerance for any form of violence or abuse in our schools.”
Maboya reaffirmed the department’s commitment to safeguarding all learners, particularly those with special educational needs, and vowed that decisive action would be taken should the allegations be substantiated.
Department spokesperson Howard Ndaba said the learner received immediate medical attention at the school’s clinic following the incident.
He added that statements had already been obtained from the two house parents and the teacher who allegedly witnessed the incident, while the clinic’s medical assessment would form part of the official investigation.
“The learner’s parent has been fully briefed on her rights, including the right to lay criminal charges with the South African Police Service. We can confirm that a criminal case has been opened with SAPS, and both the school and the Department will cooperate fully with the investigation. Psychosocial support has also been activated immediately,” said Ndaba.
A safeguarding review meeting is expected to be convened soon to assess the learner’s welfare and ensure that all necessary protection measures remain in place.
The case has sparked concern among parents and community members, particularly given the vulnerable status of learners at the specialized institution.
At the time of publication, it remained unclear whether any arrests had been made. Police had also not confirmed when the suspect might appear in court.
The investigations by both SAPS and the Department of Education are ongoing.
