The Eastern Cape Department of Education has announced the withdrawal of its notice to deregister Bergview College, a private school located in Matatiele, Cape {town} Etc reports.
This decision follows the uproar over a troubling incident where a seven-year-old pupil reported being raped last year.
The withdrawal was communicated through a letter allegedly sent to the school on Tuesday, which affirmed, ‘Kindly be advised that the decision to withdraw the registration of your school as an independent school is rescinded with immediate effect.’
This shift came after the school’s management contested the initial deregistration, asserting that it was an unlawful decision by MEC Fundile Gade.
In a statement made by the Eastern Cape Department of Education on Wednesday, it was emphasized that, ‘The MEC of Education in the Eastern Cape, Mr Fundile Gade, continues to marshal his department to help resolve the matter and ensure justice is served in the investigation into the alleged sexual assault of a 7-year-old girl.’
Gade recognised the extensive consultations held with various stakeholders, including other government departments, advocating for a united effort to bring justice for the affected family. ‘The MEC appreciates the support given to the families and the solidarity demonstrated by South Africans from all corners,’ the statement continued.
In the context of the school’s regulatory framework, Gade articulated that independent schools like Bergview College are governed under different legal prescriptions than public schools, prompting a focus on enforcement mechanisms.
‘The only option we have to enforce accountability and justice from their actions is temporary revocation of their operating licence,’ Gade explained, reinforcing the notion that such measures are crucial in ensuring a safe educational environment.
Despite the reversals in deregistration, the Eastern Cape Department has made it clear that Bergview College remains obligated to provide a safe and suitable environment for learning.
The investigation concerning the alleged crime remains paramount, with multiple government entities, including the Ministries of Police, Social Development, and Justice, actively involved. The Police Ministry has mobilised its Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (SAPS FCS) to facilitate a comprehensive investigation, leaving no stone unturned.
Furthermore, the Justice Ministry is pursuing a thorough vetting of all staff members at Bergview College, while social development representatives have stepped in to offer psycho-social support to the family of the victim.
The Department of Education remains reliant on the collaboration with the Joint Justice Cluster to navigate the ongoing criminal investigations.
Gade expressed a renewed sense of hope, stating, ‘I am now hopeful that as the ECDoE, we at least contributed in ensuring the wheels of justice turn again and this time they turn fast in favour of Cwecwe and her family.’
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