Making schools a safe learning place

Schools re-opened on January 15 nationwide.

The MEC for Community Safety Faith Mazibuko said education shapes a person’s attitude in life.

Mazibuko said that it is important to instil the culture of learning to children.

“We should encourage them to go to school as this is the only way we can take this country and the economy to greater heights.

That being said, the pupils environment needs to be safe and conducive.

“Pupils must have all the necessary resources, such as learning material, proper classrooms so as to make the learning process take place with no interruptions.

“Safety is equally important, school children often encounter challenges such as bullying at school,” she said.

Mazibuko said that the Department of Community Safety with the Department of Education has implemented safety programmes at schools.

“The programmes aim to assist Gauteng schools to be in a position to detect, respond to safety threats and incidents through the development and maintenance of comprehensive and actionable school safety plans designed to address their specific needs,” she said.

Mazibuko said: “Although such initiatives are in place, bullying, crime, sexual abuse, substance abuse and other illegal activities occur in our schools.

” This then calls for all role player to take an active role to ensure that our schools are indeed a better place for learning.

“Parental involvement is the key; parents should take an active role in their children’s lives.

“Reporting of incidences, particularly those that occur during school hours must be encouraged by all parties involved, be it a caretaker, pupils or teachers.”

She said communities must also be active in ensuring that schools are a safe place.