25 March 2025
SADTU condemns the abduction of a teacher at Happydale Special School in Gqeberha
The South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (SADTU) is deeply disturbed and outraged by the shocking abduction of a teacher at Happydale Special School in Algoa Park, Gqeberha on Monday, 24 March 2025.
According to police reports, the 45-year-old female teacher was forcibly taken by three men in the school’s parking lot as she parked her car. The assailants allegedly forced her into a white corolla vehicle and fired two shots into the air as they abducted her.
SADTU strongly condemns this violent incident, particularly as it occurred within the premises of a special school – a space meant to provide safety and learning for vulnerable learners. This incident not only threatened the safety of learners, teachers and support personnel but also undermined the provision of education.
Schools must remain sanctuaries of education and development, free from crime and violence.
We urge law enforcement agencies to act swiftly in locating the teacher and bringing the perpetrators to justice. Furthermore, we call on the Department of Basic Education to strengthen security measures in schools to prevent such attacks as schools are increasingly becoming soft targets for criminals.
As part of SADTU’s I Am a School Fan campaign, we call on all education stakeholders – especially communities – to stand together in protecting schools from criminal elements. Schools should be respected as places of learning, not crime scenes.
SADTU stands in solidarity with the affected teacher’s family, colleagues, and learners during this traumatic time. We will closely monitor developments and engage relevant authorities to ensure justice is served.
ISSUED BY: SADTU Secretariat