Student in hot water for 'mocking' Cwecwe

A STUDENT is in hot water for a social media post.

Sol Plaatjie University in Northern Cape has confirmed an investigation into disturbing social media comments allegedly made by one of their students about a rape victim.

The student, identified as Kaelo Dilaolo, reportedly made inappropriate jokes regarding seven-year-old Cwecwe who was allegedly raped at Bergview College in Matatiele, Eastern Cape in October 2024.

The controversy came to light when students shared screenshots of WhatsApp messages in which Dilaolo appeared to mock the sexual violation of the minor.

When confronted about his comments, Kaelo allegedly responded dismissively, stating: "I'm joking sister. I was not the one who raped her."

Multiple individuals have claimed that when they attempted to call out his behaviour, Kaelo responded with slurs and continued to be unapologetic.

Kashini Maistry, spokeswoman for Sol Plaatjie University, confirmed that the institution is aware of the allegations and has initiated a formal investigation.

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"The matter is under investigation by the university, so we cannot provide further comment. Sol Plaatje University condemns all forms of gender-based violence (GBV) and harm in the strongest terms. We reaffirm our zero-tolerance to GBV on our campuses," said Maistry.

She emphasised the university's commitment to creating a safer society.

"Universities are a microcosm of society and we must therefore ensure we lead from the front in stemming the deadly tide of GBV," she said.

Reports indicated that Kaelo is enrolled in the Bachelor of Education Foundation Phase Teaching programme, but the university declined to confirm this, citing privacy concerns.

"The university is not in a position to divulge personal information about any individual. Investigations are confidential and the university is not in a position to comment on active investigations," said Maistry.

However, the university hasn't given a timeline for the conclusion of its investigation or what potential disciplinary measures might be taken if the allegations are confirmed.