Two Gauteng learners accused of trying to sexually assault Grade 8 girl at Villa Liza Secondary School

Gauteng Education MEC responds to alleged sexual assault of Grade 8 girl at Villa Liza Secondary School.

Gauteng Education MEC Lebogang Maile has expressed concern over an alleged attempted sexual assault involving learners at Villa Liza Secondary School in Boksburg.

According to a preliminary incident report received by the Gauteng Department of Education, the incident allegedly took place on Thursday, August 20, 2026, during school dismissal.

The department said a Grade 8 girl learner went to the school toilets when two male learners allegedly followed her inside.

The two learners allegedly restrained the girl and attempted to remove some of her clothing.

The alleged incident was interrupted when members of the school's general staff approached the toilets while carrying out cleaning duties.

The two male learners allegedly fled from the toilets after the staff members arrived.

The matter was subsequently reported to an educator, while the girl's parents were contacted. The South African Police Service was also called to the school.

The school then began efforts to establish the identities of the learners allegedly involved.

According to the department, steps were taken to open a criminal case at Dawn Park Police Station.

Maile described the allegations as "extremely serious and concerning", saying schools must be safe environments where learners can receive an education without fear of sexual violence, intimidation or harassment.

The Gauteng Department of Education said it would cooperate fully with the police investigation and ensure that the matter is dealt with through the appropriate departmental and school disciplinary processes.

The department stressed that these processes would take place without interfering with the criminal investigation.

The affected learner and her family will also be provided with psychosocial support.