By OBAKENG MAJE
9 December 2024- The PH Mooketsi High School in Taung is under scrutiny. This comes after allegations that, male teachers at the school are dating female learners.
According to a post on Facebook, one of the teachers posted his conversation between him and an alleged learner. It is alleged that, in the conversation, the teacher said he wished he had kissed the learner, which implies that they had met before.
The message reads: “A mathematical literacy teacher from P.H. Moeketsi High School, allegedly posted a conversation between himself and an alleged learner at P.H. Moeketsi. In the conversation, the teacher sent a message saying he wished he had kissed the learner the last time they met.
“This implies that they had met before. Rumours are circulating that the teacher often looks at young female learners with lustful intentions. The learners claim he dresses inappropriately, deliberately exposing private body parts to make young girls infatuated with him.”
It is alleged that he was seen with the learner at Depot Hall after school (their meeting point). The message continues to read, additionally, it is alleged that he exhibited similar behaviour at his previous school.
“A concerned individual commented, “I know him and that’s his nature”. He constantly chases young girls, forgetting he has a wife and children. Please help report him to stop his alleged misconduct.
“Apparently, some male teachers at P.H. Mooketsi is dating young girls at the school. What are your thoughts on this? Please note that the allegations mentioned are unverified and should be investigated thoroughly.”
The North West Department of Education spokesperson, Mphata Molokwane said, they have been notified regarding the allegations. Molokwane further said currently, the issue falls under the jurisdiction of labour relations, which is tasked with overseeing the disciplinary procedures.
“The timeline for this process has been extended primarily due to difficulties in the investigation, as some individuals have been reluctant to serve as witnesses. At this time, psycho-social support services are being offered to the affected individual.
“The department is committed to ensuring that justice is achieved in this matter,” he added.
Meanwhile, the NAPTOSA’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in North West, Kgomotso Hans said: “We condemn teachers who are having romantic relationships with learners. As NAPTOSA, those teachers who have criminal cases should be dismissed. Those cases should be thoroughly investigated and if the accused persons are guilty, they should be dismissed.
“We do not want those perpetrators near our children. Obviously, this will depend on the seriousness of the case. We have indicated that there are some cases that are petty.”
However, Hans said they will not tolerate serious cases related to sexual abuse of learners.
The Guardian 