Admin
17 Oct, 2025
A teacher’s betrayal: UDMYV demands justice for exploited young women
Statement by Zintombi Sododile, Chairperson of United Democratic Movement Youth Vanguard in the Eastern Cape The United Democratic Movement Youth Vanguard (UDM Youth Vanguard) expresses its deep outrage at revelations that a teacher from the Eastern Cape stands accused of preying on young women through a trafficking and sexual exploitation ring. It is alleged that this educator targeted women from rural towns such as Qumbu, Mthatha and Ngqeleni, transported them to East London, and exploited their vulnerability for profit under the pretence of offering accommodation and opportunity. Although the investigation reportedly began in September 2023, it has taken more than a year for the matter to reach court. It remains unclear whether the delay lies with the police, the prosecution, or both, but it reflects a wider concern about how cases involving the exploitation of women and children are handled. The slow pace of justice deepens the trauma of survivors and weakens public confidence in law enforcement. The UDM Youth Vanguard calls for clarity and accountability from all institutions involved in the handling of this case. This case exposes a shocking abuse of authority and a moral collapse within an institution meant to nurture and protect the youth. When a teacher, entrusted with guiding the next generation, becomes a perpetrator of such heinous crimes, it betrays the trust of families, communities, and the education system itself. The UDM Youth Vanguard condemns this reprehensible conduct in the strongest terms and demands: 1. The swift and uncompromising prosecution of all those implicated in this trafficking network. 2. An immediate internal investigation by the Department of Education to determine how this went undetected. 3. Comprehensive psychosocial support and protection for all affected survivors. 4. The introduction of stricter vetting and ethics oversight for educators and school staff. 5. A national awareness campaign on human trafficking and sexual exploitation targeting schools and communities. We call on the Minister of Basic Education and the Minister of Police to treat this case as a wake-up call. South Africa cannot allow those entrusted with public service to use their positions to exploit the poor and the powerless. We cannot build a just society while predators hide behind positions of trust. The UDMYV pledges to raise awareness among young people about their rights, to support survivors in seeking justice, and to continue speaking out against abuse wherever it occurs. Every child deserves safety, respect, and a future free from exploitation.
Admin
05 Oct, 2025
World Teachers Day: UDM salutes South Africa’s teachers
Statement by Zandile Phiri, Acting Secretary General of the United Democratic Movement As the world marks World Teachers’ Day, the United Democratic Movement (UDM) pays heartfelt tribute to the men and women who dedicate their lives to the noble task of educating our nation. Teachers are not only transmitters of knowledge; they are the architects of our collective future. In every classroom, whether in a rural village, township or city, teachers shape South Africa’s destiny by nurturing the minds that will build tomorrow’s economy, democracy and leadership. They are mentors, counsellors and protectors who work under increasingly difficult conditions, yet continue to give of themselves with patience and purpose. Today, we must also confront the hard truth that many of our teachers operate in overcrowded classrooms, without adequate support or resources, and face safety and morale challenges that no professional should endure. It is unacceptable that educators are expected to inspire hope while they themselves feel neglected and undervalued. The UDM believes that education remains the single most powerful equaliser in our society, and that investing in teachers is investing in the nation’s stability and growth. We therefore call for the urgent improvement of working conditions and remuneration for educators, particularly in rural and under-resourced schools. We further call for the reintroduction of teacher training and mentorship programmes to restore the professionalism and discipline that once defined the teaching vocation. Stronger partnerships between schools, communities and government are essential to ensure that every learner studies in an environment that is safe, supportive and conducive to growth. Happy World Teachers’ Day.
Admin
06 Nov, 2019
A teacher dies: Keiskammahoek tragedy
The United Democratic Movement is disheartened by the sad news of the passing of an educator at Sivuyile Primary School in Keiskammahoek, Eastern Cape. The video of a heated argument between an Educator and a learner started circulating on social media late last week. The UDM is truly disappointed by this behaviour of the learner which is rapidly becoming a norm in our schools. The parents are to blame for allowing their children to take mobile phones to schools and the Department of Basic Education as well for failing to come to the rescue of the teachers who are subjected to the trauma of being abused by the learners. The teachers are not safe in schools and there is very little that they can do to instill discipline to rude learners. As a result of this emotional abuse they are exposed to, they end up being victims of depression. As of now, there are quite a number of educators whose attendance is regular because of the depression. The learners know it is not acceptable to bring phones in school premises but they continue to bring them because they are aware that the educators irrespective of whatever provocation there is very little that they can do. The learners have rights. An educator cannot confiscate a mobile phone from a learner in a classroom without being chastised. The UDM calls on the Eastern Cape Education MEC, Fundile Gade to take educators into confidence on his plan that he has that will prevent this from happening again. The death of this educator must be really a wake-up call for the education stakeholders and the Country as a whole. Many Educators are experiencing depression due to the conditions they undergo whilst on duty. May the Soul of the late Educator rest in eternal peace. Issued by: Mr Bongani Msomi UDM Secretary General
