Teto Secondary School. Photo: Google Maps
JOHANNESBURG - A 62-year-old educator from Teto Secondary School in Thabong, Welkom, is recovering in hospital after she was allegedly stabbed multiple times at her home.
The Free State Department of Education said the incident happened on 23 September, at the educator’s private residence in Dagbreek.
It is alleged that a Grade 11 learner from the school was hiding inside the educator’s home before attacking her with a sharp object.
She was stabbed several times in the head and hands.
The educator, who has served at Teto Secondary School for 38 years, is receiving medical attention.
Free State Education MEC Mamiki Maboya has condemned the attack.
“We are appalled and deeply saddened by this cowardly and barbaric attack on one of our most seasoned educators – a mother and grandmother who has given almost four decades of her life to shaping the future of this province.”
Maboya said the attack goes beyond the individual educator.
“An attack on an educator is an attack on the entire education system and on the future of
our children.”
She said the department will not tolerate gender-based violence.
“We will not tolerate any form of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide in our schools or communities.”
A criminal case has been opened and the South African Police Service is investigating.
Maboya has also called for swift action from law enforcement.
“We call on law enforcement agencies to act swiftly to ensure that the perpetrator is
brought to book.”
The department said the alleged perpetrator’s identity would not be disclosed while the investigation is ongoing.