Schools are meant to be safe spaces where learners can focus on their studies and growth. Several cases of sexual harassment claims on Free State school are raising serious concern. Reports from high schools and colleges show that some teachers and lecturers have been accused of inappropriate behaviour, leaving learners feeling unsafe and unsupported.
Concerns in Free State schools
At St Bernard High School in Bloemfontein, former learners came forward with claims that teachers sent them inappropriate messages and explicit photos. Some of these learners were so disturbed by the behaviour that they opened criminal cases with the police. The issue gained wider attention when it spread on social media, encouraging others to share their stories too (SABC News report).
Another troubling situation has emerged at the Thiboloha School for the Deaf and Blind in Phuthaditjhaba. The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Free State demanded a full investigation after reports that the school principal ignored complaints against staff members. Concerns were also raised about teachers allegedly attending classes under the influence, which added to the unsafe environment for learners (Bulletin coverage).
Problems in higher education
Sexual harassment issues are not limited to high schools. The Motheo TVET College in Bloemfontein has also been in the spotlight. The Portfolio Committee on Higher Education expressed concern that the college has been slow to deal with serious complaints against lecturers. Some cases have dragged on for months without resolution, leaving learners feeling unprotected as they continue to see the accused staff members on campus (Parliament statement, Central News Free State).
When institutions take too long to act, the message sent to victims is that their voices do not matter. This delays healing, creates fear and may discourage others from reporting similar behaviour.
Why these cases matter
These incidents show a broader problem with how sexual harassment is handled in the education system. Schools and colleges are meant to nurture learners, but when claims are ignored or poorly managed, learners feel unsafe. The presence of an accused teacher or lecturer in a classroom is intimidating and prevents victims from focusing on their studies.
Experts point out that the law requires strong protection for children and young adults, yet gaps remain in how these rules are enforced. In some cases, teachers found guilty of misconduct have moved to other schools without their history being reported. This places new groups of learners at risk (TimesLIVE opinion).
Steps that must be taken
To create safer learning spaces, several actions are needed:
- Swift investigations: Cases must be resolved within 90 days. Long delays make it harder to prove what happened and deepen the pain for victims.
- Suspension of accused staff: Educators facing allegations should not remain in classrooms until the matter is fully investigated. This protects learners from further harm.
- Use of the Child Protection Register: The Children’s Act requires names of offenders to be listed so they cannot move between schools unnoticed. This is an important tool that must be used consistently.
- Better cooperation: The South African Council for Educators, provincial education departments and school governing bodies need to work together. A united response ensures no case is ignored.
- Community awareness: Parents and learners should know exactly how to report abuse and what the process will be. Transparent communication helps rebuild trust.
The bigger picture
The problem is not only in the Free State. Across South Africa, there has been a rise in sexual harassment reports in schools. The Education Labour Relations Council (ELRC) confirmed that 111 cases of sexual misconduct were reported in the 2024 and 2025 financial year, up from 82 the year before. That is a rise of almost 35 percent. Experts believe many more cases go unreported because learners fear being victimised (Cape Argus report).
This trend shows that stronger systems are needed nationwide, not just in one province. When cases are handled properly, they send a clear message that abuse will not be tolerated and that victims will be supported.
Final Thoughts
The claims of sexual harassment in Free State schools and colleges highlight a painful truth. Many young people are still at risk in the very spaces where they should feel safe. The good news is that solutions exist. Swift action, better cooperation, stronger enforcement of existing laws and open communication with communities can protect learners.
South Africa’s future depends on creating education environments where children and young adults feel secure, respected and valued. Every complaint deserves to be heard and resolved fairly. Schools must put learners first, and society must hold institutions accountable until classrooms are truly safe spaces for learning.
