By Levy Masiteng
A 44-year-old maths teacher at Malebaleba Public Primary School in Odendaalsrus has been served with an audi letter as the Free State Department of Education investigates a physical altercation between Grade 4 learners captured in a video circulating on social media.
The department said that the educator was allegedly present in the classroom when the incident occurred on 7 October 2026.
The audi letter formally notifies the educator of the allegations against her and gives her an opportunity to provide a written response and her version of events before the department decides whether further action is necessary.
“An Audi Letter derives from the legal principle [audi alteram partem], which means ‘to hear the other side’,” the department said.
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“It is a standard, fair labour procedure and not a finding of guilt.”
The department said the educator’s response would be considered as part of the ongoing investigation. No finding of wrongdoing has been made against her.
The incident came to the department’s attention after a video showing a physical altercation in school hours between Grade 4 learners in a classroom was shared widely on WhatsApp and other social media platforms.
The school principal formally reported the matter on 8 October, after which it was referred to the district office. An internal investigation led by the district began on 9 October.
The department said psychosocial support was being provided to all affected learners. The school has also conducted engagements with parents.
“The safety and protection of learners remains our highest priority,” the department said.
It condemned bullying and any conduct that compromises learner safety.
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Disciplinary processes involving learners will be handled in accordance with the South African Schools Act and will include restorative and corrective measures, said the department.
“We appeal to members of the public to stop circulating the video, as it identifies minor children and may cause secondary victimisation,” it said.
