RISE Mzansi says Gwarube agreed to address Parly on need for improved learner safety
The party requested to highlight the plight of South African learners who face assault and rape at the country’s schools, following the alleged rape of an eight-year-old child by another learner during a school function in Bethal, Mpumalanga.
Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube on 21 November 2024 among ministers leading the multidisciplinary teams in government responsible for the national response to instances of food borne illnesses. Picture: GCIS
CAPE TOWN - RISE Mzansi says the Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, has agreed to the party’s request to address Parliament on the need for improved learner safety.
The party requested to highlight the plight of South African learners who face assault and rape at the country’s schools, following the alleged rape of an eight-year-old child by another learner during a school function in Bethal, Mpumalanga.
RISE Mzansi member of Parliament (MP) Makashule Gana said learner safety is an emergency that requires a direct and coordinated response from the Department of Basic Education, the South African Police Service and the Department of Social Development.
In his letter to Gwarube, Gana implored the minister to make an executive statement before the house and the people of South Africa, in terms of National Assembly rules.
“I asked her to address the National Assembly and the people of South Africa in terms of Rule 133 of the National Assembly Rules, and she acceded to our request as RISE Mzansi.
“RISE Mzansi expects the minister to outline a workable plan of action for implementation, which we hold her accountable for. Schools must be places of learning and safety.”