Commission for Gender Equality to Hold Investigative Hearing on Handling of Sexual Harassment and Rape in Eastern Cape Schools
The hearing forms part of the Commission’s constitutional and legislative mandate to promote, protect, monitor, and evaluate gender equality in South Africa.
On Monday, 11 May 2026, the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) will convene an investigative hearing into the handling of sexual harassment and rape involving learners in schools across the Eastern Cape.
The hearing follows the monitoring and investigation of sexual harassment complaints by the Commission, as well as the escalating reports of sexual harassment at Eastern Cape schools.
It aims to hold the Department of Education accountable for the systemic challenges affecting learners within the schooling environment. These challenges raise serious concerns regarding the safety, dignity, and wellness of learners.
The Head of Eastern Cape Department of Education is expected to appear before the Commission. The hearing forms part of the Commission’s constitutional and legislative mandate to promote, protect, monitor, and evaluate gender equality in South Africa.
Due to the sensitivity of the matters before the Commission, the hearing will be a closed proceeding.
Members of the media will be engaged after the hearing.
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