SACE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: 11 June 2026

SACE CONDEMNS VIOLENCE AND INTIMIDATION AGAINST STUDENT TEACHERS

The South African Council for Educators (SACE) strongly condemns all forms of violence, intimidation, harassment, and abuse directed at educators and student teachers.

SACE has noted with serious concern the reported incident involving student teachers from the University of the Free State (UFS), who were allegedly attacked while attending their teaching practicals near Lekhulong Secondary School.

Student teachers are part of the education profession and must be afforded the same dignity, protection, and respect as all educators. Acts of violence and intimidation against individuals who are committed to teaching and learning are unacceptable and cannot be tolerated in a democratic society governed by the rule of law.

SACE wishes to reaffirm its position that:
• Schools and surrounding communities must remain safe spaces for educators and student teachers;
• Violence, threats, and public intimidation undermine the integrity and dignity of the teaching profession; and
• Any individual found guilty of assault, intimidation, or abuse must be held accountable through the appropriate legal processes.

We commend the affected student teachers for taking the necessary legal steps by reporting the matter to the South African Police Service. SACE calls upon law enforcement authorities to conduct a fair, thorough, and impartial investigation into the matter.

The teaching profession remains central to nation-building and the development of future generations. Educators and student teachers should never fear for their safety while carrying out their professional responsibilities.

SACE stands in solidarity with all educators and student teachers who experience abuse, violence, or intimidation, and reiterates its commitment to promoting the protection, dignity, and professional respect of all members of the teaching profession.

Issued by:
South African Council for Educators (SACE)