SADTU calls for nationwide action on school safety
The South African Democratic Teachers’ Union has welcomed the newly launched school safety campaign.
Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube and Police Minister Senzo Mchunu launched the campaign in Cape Townn on Tuesday.
It comes amid growing concerns over learner-on-learner violence in the country as well as incidents of sexual violence.
Data by the South African Police Service has revealed that 28 murders took place in schools for the 2023/2024 financial year, with Kwa-Zulu Natal accounting for more than half of the numbers.
Mchunu said Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape and Western Cape make up for the majority of crimes that take place in schools.
SADTU spokesperson Nomusa Cembi said that while the union has noted prioritisation in hotspot provinces they urge that equal attention be given to all provinces.
“Violent incidents also occur in areas where they may go unreported due to the limited presence or accessibility of police services,” said Cembi.
“We hope the signing of this protocol will not only reaffirm previous efforts but lead to more effective and consistent implementation. Numerous plans and policies already exist to address school safety, yet violence continues to plague our learning institutions.”
Cembi called for schools to be safe havens through the safety protocol, saying an environment for learners and educators should be a place to thrive without fear.
ALSO READ:
