The South African Council of Churches (SACC) in the Eastern Cape has expressed profound shock and sorrow over the recent sexual abuse of a seven-year-old girl at Bergview College in Matatiele.

In a statement shared with the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SACBC) communication office, the SACC in the Eastern Cape emphasized that the incident, which has sparked nationwide outrage and protests, highlights the ongoing crisis of violence against minors in South Africa.

According to reports, the young girl was left in the care of the school’s security guard, driver, and principal when the traumatic incident occurred. While the investigation is still ongoing, concerns have been raised over delays in the process.

“It is reported that only two of the three men have given their DNA samples for testing, and we are deeply concerned that the principal has not; this is likely to hinder and further delay the investigative process,” the SACC stated in the Monday, March 31, statement.

The Council reaffirmed its support for the young survivor and her family, calling for divine strength, healing, and comfort during this difficult time. It also commended the child’s courage in reporting the abuse, pledging to continue advocating for her safety and for the protection of all children.

This case has intensified broader concerns about the prevalence of child abuse in the province and country. The SACC acknowledged the deep pain felt by the community, noting that many incidents of violence against minors often go unreported or unresolved, leaving countless children vulnerable and without justice.

“As Christians, our primary teachings emphasize the need for the protection and care of children. In Mark 10:14, Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.’ We are compelled by our faith to stand resolutely against any form of harm or violence inflicted on children,” the Council affirmed.

Furthermore, the SACC reminded all stakeholders that South Africa’s Constitution guarantees every child the right to a safe education, free from abuse or mistreatment. “It is deeply concerning that a place intended for learning and growth has become associated with such an incident,” the statement read. The Council called for anyone found guilty of harming a child to be permanently barred from working in educational or childcare environments.

The SACC has urged Bergview College’s administration and the Eastern Cape Department of Basic Education to cooperate fully with law enforcement to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation. Additionally, the Council called on the South African Police Service (SAPS) to expedite the investigation and for the justice system to act impartially, ensuring due process is followed.

“Protecting the welfare of our children must be our collective foremost priority, and we urge all stakeholders to take proactive steps in preventing such tragedies in the future,” the Council stated. It concluded by calling for justice to prevail and for God’s grace to bring peace and healing to all those affected by the incident.