Bongani Ndlovu
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Check Point
Tyson Lunga, a Milton High School teacher, has been dismissed by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education over allegations of improper association with learners, despite being cleared in court of sodomy charges.
Mr Lunga (37), who has also served as a pastor at a local Pentecostal church and volunteered with the Scripture Union, appeared before the Ministry’s disciplinary committee on 22 September last year, facing allegations of improper conduct with students under the Ministry’s regulations. He had been on suspension since the accusations surfaced in May of last year.
Bulawayo Provincial Education Director, Mr Bernard Mazambane, confirmed the sacking, saying the Ministry does not solely rely on court outcomes when dealing with cases involving learners.
“The teacher concerned has been relieved of his duties. We do not rely on what happens at the courts. As a Ministry, we have our own ways of handling such matters, mainly guided by what learners say,” Mr Mazambane said.
Mr Lunga was previously accused of indecently assaulting several students at the school, with court documents alleging he attempted to entice the complainants with cash, food, and other items. The teacher was arrested in June last year after students, with assistance from another staff member, reported the incidents to the police.
However, Bulawayo magistrate Ms Beverly Madzikatire acquitted Mr Lunga, stating that the case lacked clear-cut evidence and that the allegations could not be proven beyond reasonable doubt.
Online Reporter