As someone deeply affected by this issue, I am writing to demand the immediate suspension and investigation of the Principal of Port Alfred High School. The Principal, Mr Nigel Adams, has been accused of sexually harassing a staff member, Ms Lacey Isaacs, on November 22, 2022. Isaacs reported the incident to the School Governing Body, who in turn reported it to the Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDOE).

After the department failed to act, Ms Isaacs courageously approached the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA), which in its Arbitration Award ECPE4976-23 found on the evidence:

• that the principal's conduct was unwelcome and of a sexual nature; and 
• chillingly raised a legitimate concern of there possibly being more victims at the school. 

A criminal case is now open.

The ECDOE failed to comply with the CCMA's final order to thoroughly investigate the principal's conduct. Even South African Council of Educators remained idle when approached by Ms Isaacs, allowing the unacceptable behaviour to go unchecked.

Only after local Member of Parliament, Mr Athol Trollip, directly approached the Minister of Basic Education, did the ECDOE make a belated visit to the school at the end of 2024. However, the issue remains unresolved.

The silence and inaction on this matter is outrageous and allows a pervasive culture of sexual harassment to foster in our education environment. This is about justice not just for Ms Isaacs, but for potential victims who may be suffering in silence.

Taking a stand now will send a clear message: sexual harassment has no place in our school, or our community. Join me in calling for the immediate suspension of the Principal of Port Alfred High School. Sign and share this petition, and let your voice be heard in the fight for a safe and healthy school environment for our teachers and our children.