Closure and Outcry: The Shutdown of Bergview College After Failing to Address Assault Allegations

A grave controversy has led to the closure of Bergview College, a private institution in Matatiele, Eastern Cape, following allegations that it failed to adequately address claims of a seven-year-old pupil's rape within its premises. The incident, said to have occurred in October 2024, has ignited widespread public fury and a demand for accountability, culminating in the school's deregistration.

According to reports, the victim's mother accused the school of neglecting her child's plight by giving her a transfer letter instead of the necessary support and failing to pursue justice against the alleged perpetrator. These claims have prompted national outrage culminating in the viral social media campaign #JusticeForCwecwe, which highlights the community's insistence on accountability and justice.

In a telling development, after the Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube pushed for action, the Eastern Cape Education MEC Fundile Gade confirmed the swift deregistration of the college. The action was based on the school's violation of the safety standards required by independent educational entities and its principal's alleged non-cooperation with law enforcement, hindering the ongoing police investigation.

In fulfilling the governmental mandate, the Eastern Cape Department of Education has intervened directly, making arrangements for the affected pupils to continue their education in other schools. This decisive move underscores the department's stance that child safety is imperative and non-negotiable.

Amidst escalating pressures on Bergview College, the South African public continues to rally for justice. Notables such as media personality Somizi Mhlongo have stepped forward, offering financial support to the victim's family and endorsing the #JusticeForCwecwe campaign. A public march is also scheduled in Cape Town on April 1, 2025, to further this cause.

As the community awaits further developments, the focus remains on ensuring that such negligence does not recur in educational settings, preserving the rights and safety of every child in South Africa.