JOHANNESBURG - The Gauteng Department of Education has terminated its partnership with Nali’Bali with immediate effect.
This comes as a member of the organisation is being accused of sexual assault involving a Grade 3 pupil.
It alleged that the incident took place on 24 March 2025 and was brought to the attention of the school the following day.
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane says although he acknowledges the contribution the organisation to the schooling system, it should not be at the expense of kids.
He said a decision had to be made to ensure that the organisation took responsibility for the incident.
The department of Nali’Bali is a 'national reading-for-enjoyment campaign' which partnered with the GDE to propel South African children's potential through storytelling and reading, more specifically in foundation phase learning following the transfer of Early Childhood Development (ECD) to Education.
Chiloane says he is aware of the gap this termination will leave but will look at ways of addressing it.
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The person has allegedly been arrested and is expected to appear in court.