“Let the Law Lead, Let Learners Learn: Community Urged to Stay Calm After School Incident”

Platinum Weekly newspaper | Rustenburg – The North West Department of Education has called for calm and patience following a serious incident involving two learners at Waterkloof Hills Primary School, Rustenburg.

In an official media statement released on Monday, 16 February 2026, North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi, urged the public to allow due process to unfold without interference. The matter involves two boys – one in Grade 1 and another in Grade 4 – and is being treated as both serious and highly sensitive.

According to the department, the parents of the alleged victim lodged a complaint with the school principal on the morning of 11 February 2026. It is alleged that the incident occurred in the school’s bathrooms the previous day. School management responded immediately by suspending the alleged perpetrator pending further processes.

MEC Motsumi emphasised that the Department views the matter with the utmost seriousness and is committed to ensuring that the law takes its course. The Department has also launched its own internal investigation to determine exactly what transpired. In addition, psychosocial support will be provided to affected learners, teachers, and parents to help the school community cope during this challenging time.

A disciplinary hearing involving the alleged perpetrator, who will be accompanied by his parents, is scheduled to take place on Monday, 23 February 2026.

The Department reinforced its broader commitment to safe learning environments, highlighting the importance of standing firmly against bullying and violence in schools.