SA schools won't continue being crime scenes: Ministers Gwarube, Mchunu

CAPE TOWN - Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube and Police Minister Senzo Mchunu say South African schools will not continue being crime scenes under their watch.
 
Both ministers committed to a working relationship to curb violence in schools at the launch of the Safer Schools Protocol in Cape Town on Tuesday.
 
At least 28 murders in and around school premises across the country were reported in the 2023/24 financial year, with nearly half of the murders taking place in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN).

Gwarube said they were concerned about the alarming increase of violent incidents at South African schools.
 
She said they'd identified 283 problematic schools situated in crime hotspots. 
 
Visible policing, search and seizures, and staff vetting were some of the actions they'll be taking to ensure safety at schools - added Gwarube.
 
"It is very important to note that we are going to be absolutely intolerant to anyone who inflicts any violence to not only our learners but to also our teachers and our schools."
 
Gwarube added that schools should not be viewed as places of crime but for teaching and learning.

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