WC Edu MEC, David Maynier, concerned about uptick of gang violence at schools

CAPE TOWN – The Western Cape MEC for Education, David Maynier, said the rate of gang violence at schools in the province is decreasing.

Maynier responded to questions from members of the provincial legislature today related to recent incidents of gang violence at schools.

This is after the Western Cape Education Department recently directed schools in Lotus River to close as a safety precaution due to gang violence in the area.

Leader of the opposition for the African National Congress (ANC) in the provincial legislature, Khalid Sayed, on Thursday questioned Maynier about gang violence at schools in the province.

"What has been the concrete impact? Can he give examples of concrete improvements in terms of being able to curb gang violence and violence generally at our schools?"

Maynier responded, saying statistics show the level of gang violence at Western Cape schools is decreasing.

“In terms of the first six months of this year, we are currently on track to have fewer gang-related incidents reported compared to last year."   

Maynier added that he's confident the department's safer schools programme will continue to reduce gang-related incidents at schools in the province.