Oprah Winfrey apologizes to families at African school

Billionaire chat show host Oprah Winfrey, who opened here $46 million school to give underprivileged African girls a chance at a better life, has has pleaded for forgiveness from the students' parents at her all-girls academy, who are currently reeling from allegations of abuse.

"I've disappointed you. I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry," Oprah told parents at an emergency meeting in a packed marquee tent on the school premises. News24.com has reported.

News 24 also reports, that Oprah has visited her school at Henley-on-Klip near Vereeniging at least twice in the past few weeks, after allegations that one of the matrons fondled a girl and that other pupils had been physically abused.

Oprah gave the girls her personal telephone number, her e-mail address and her postal address so that they could contact her at any time, day or night.

Apart from the matron apparently involved, Oprah sent the principal, a Dr Mzimane, and at least one other matron on leave two weeks ago. Only the principal was on paid leave.

A parent told Rapport on Saturday evening that the abuse had visibly upset Oprah. She had felt guilty because she had trusted the principal and the matron.

The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy opened in January to provide quality education to underprivileged girls.