I need to begin this by being absolutely clear: what follows are allegations. These claims come from learners and former learners, and while they have not yet been independently verified, they are too serious to ignore. The purpose of this piece is not to accuse individuals by name, but to highlight the urgent need for an investigation and protection of learners. Silence would be reckless. Speaking up, responsibly, is the least we can do.
The Allegations
Several disturbing claims have surfaced about JS Skenjana High School in Dutywa, Eastern Cape:
- Learners allege that some male teachers have taken advantage of underage girls, using their positions of power to exploit them sexually.
- It is alleged that some girls became pregnant, some experienced miscarriages, and others live with ongoing trauma.
- There are claims that certain abusive behaviours have been so common that learners began to see them as “normal.”
- One specific story alleges that a girl who damaged a teacher’s car was forced to “repay” by sleeping with him, resulting in pregnancy.
- Another claim suggests that even in 2025, a teacher is in a relationship with a Grade 10 learner.
- Learners also allege that corporal punishment is widespread, and so harsh that many learners are considering dropping out of school. This is particularly shocking because corporal punishment has been banned in South African schools by law under the South African Schools Act.
- When reading through public comments on these allegations, some people even claim that this behaviour has been happening for years and is widely known in the community. That makes these allegations even more concerning and highlights why a proper investigation is urgently needed.
You can watch the videos where these claims are made here:
Again: these are allegations. They must be investigated fairly and urgently. But they cannot be ignored.
Why This Matters
If there is truth to these claims, then we are dealing with a heartbreaking betrayal. Teachers are entrusted with our children. They are meant to be protectors and role models. When that trust is broken, it is not only the learners who are harmed — it is the entire community, the education system, and our future.
Unchecked abuse creates lifelong scars: emotional trauma, physical harm, and shattered trust. It drives learners to the brink of dropping out, not because they don’t want to learn, but because the classroom itself feels unsafe. And in a province like Eastern Cape — already struggling with poverty — pushing children away from education only deepens cycles of despair.
What We Know
- Fact: JS Skenjana High School is a public, no-fee secondary school in Dutywa, Eastern Cape, with over 1,600 learners.
- Fact: It falls under the Department of Education’s authority and must comply with South Africa’s child-protection laws, including the ban on corporal punishment in schools.
- Allegations: Sexual exploitation, pregnancies, coercion, and illegal corporal punishment are reportedly taking place. These allegations have not yet been confirmed by official investigations.
What Must Happen Next
The situation calls for urgent, transparent, and independent investigation. The following actions are crucial:
- Department of Education Inquiry: Authorities must investigate immediately, with zero tolerance for delays.
- Child Protection Services: If learners are at risk, child-protection agencies must step in to ensure their safety and provide support.
- Temporary Suspension: Any staff member under investigation should be removed from teaching duties until facts are established.
- Safe Reporting: Learners must be given safe, anonymous ways to report abuse without fear of intimidation.
- Support Systems: Learners who may have been harmed need access to counselling, medical care, and legal support.
A Plea as a Parent
As a mother, I cannot stand by when allegations like this arise. Every child deserves to feel safe in a classroom. Every parent deserves the peace of mind of knowing their child is protected, not preyed upon.
If these allegations are false, an investigation will clear the air and restore trust. If they are true, then justice must be swift, decisive, and uncompromising. Either way, silence is not an option.
Final Thoughts
This is not about rumours. It is about children. Their safety, dignity, and futures are at stake. JS Skenjana High School owes it to its learners, its parents, and its community to face these allegations head-on. Investigations must happen. The truth must come out. And action must follow.
Our children deserve nothing less.
