US team probes Oprah's school

2007-10-25 12:39

Verashni Pillay

Johannesburg - The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls has brought in an elite team of professional investigators from America to probe claims of abuse by an employee, the school told News24 on Thursday.

"We have engaged professional investigators of the highest standing from South Africa and the United States to conduct a fair and impartial inquiry into these claims," said school CEO, John Samuel.

Provincial co-ordinator of the police units investigating child abuse, superintendent André Neethling, met with the team which included a retired Chicago policeman.

The academy also provided psychological support and counselling services to pupils, following the scandal at the school, where a pupil ran away after allegedly repeatedly being abused by a dormitory matron.

'Fondled' one of the girls

According to an article in Rapport newspaper, the matron at the school in Henley-on-Klip, south of Johannesburg, apparently "fondled" one of the pupils, and assaulted another.

Police were tight-lipped but have confirmed they are investigating a charge of abuse.

"Police are still taking several statements from the victims and the employees at the school," said superintendent Lungelo Dlamini. "Once the police investigation has been finalised, criminal processes will be taken against the affected employee."

The matron has taken a paid leave of absence while investigations continue, according to Samuels.

While the Rapport article alleged that Samuels failed to take action when the abuse was first reported to him, the school maintained he acted immediately.

The school, which cost the popular American talkshow host about R268m, has been dogged by controversy since it opened in January.

'Cultural differences'

Two pupils, Michelle Conradie and Gwyneth Mans, left the school earlier this year because of "cultural differences" with the other girls.

Parents have complained about the strict visiting rules and diet regulations.

Cellphones and e-mail correspondence are out of bounds during the week, and girls are only allowed to phone their parents at weekends.

The maximum number of visitors per pupil is four once a month, and visits have to be approved by the school at least two weeks in advance.

Winfrey, who handpicked the 152 grade 7 and 8 pupils, flew to South Africa on Friday 19 October to see how the investigation was going, according to Rapport.

"Nothing is more serious or devastating to me than an allegation of misconduct by an adult against any girl at the academy," she said. "I will do everything within my power to ensure their safety and well-being."

- News24