Schooling the system: Experts urge SA to learn from Oprah academy’s trauma-informed model

Amid children’s many traumas outside the classroom, the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls (OWLAG) has implemented a comprehensive trauma-informed programme (TIP).

Educational experts have praised the OWLAG for its trauma-informed education model.

They urged the government to scale up similar interventions across the public school system to support pupils battling emotional and psychological adversity.

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Classrooms that heal

According to Gugulethu Ndebele, the OWLAG executive director, TIP integrates neuroscience, psychology, and evidence-based practices.

Speaking to The Citizen, education activist Hendrick Makaneta stated that this strategy offered a much-needed intervention for South Africa’s traumatised youth.

“Learners who are traumatised often struggle to reach their fullest potential. The implementation of TIP will certainly go a long way. It will minimise the impact of trauma among learners and set them on a path to create a future for themselves,” he said.

Makaneta said the Department of Basic education should adopt a similar strategy. He warned that the country’s high dropout rates could not be fully addressed without tackling childhood trauma.

“The Trauma-Informed Programme is not only necessary for OWLAG, but I think the entire education system should adopt such a progressive programme of action. This view focuses on ensuring that the programme benefits all South African students,” he added.

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Broader society

Additionally, Desmond Lesejane, an educational specialist, echoed the need for broader societal involvement in addressing trauma in schools.

“The response to trauma must therefore draw in the wider communities in which the schools exist and involve other stakeholders,” he told The Citizen.

These stakeholders include the health department, business communities, religious leaders, and traditional leaders.

Lesejane further added that the education department’s psychosocial support is constrained by limited resources.

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‘Transformative results’

Ndebele emphasised that while OWLAG has seen “transformative” results—including improved academic performance and emotional resilience—the model requires sustained investment. Continuous training is also needed to adopt it nationwide.

“Our experience at OWLAG demonstrates that trauma-informed education isn’t just theoretical. It’s a practical, effective approach to transforming lives,” she said.

The call for trauma-sensitive education comes amid continued concern over the effects of violence and poverty on children’s mental health.

“Schools must become spaces that not only teach, but also heal,” Ndebele concluded.

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