The DBE, in partnership with Agape Youth Movement (AYM), PEDs, the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Partners for Prevention Programme (PfP) of the German Development Cooperation (GIZ), successfully launched the School-Based GBV Prevention Advocacy Programme at Hoërskool Jeugland in Kempton Park on 5 March 2025, under the Hashtag #Asiyifuni iGBV. This ground-breaking initiative aims to create safer school environments by equipping learners with knowledge and skills to prevent Gender-Based Violence (GBV) through strategic, youth-led approaches. The programme coincides with the Human Rights Month commemoration, emphasizing the right to dignity and safety for all students.

During the intergenerational dialogue, Mr Likho Bottoman, Director for Social Cohesion and Equity in Education, outlined a comprehensive strategy to combat various forms of GBV in schools. He emphasised the Department's commitment to working alongside police and community stakeholders to end sexual violence and exploitation, including harassment, assault, and coercion by peers, educators, or non-teaching staff.

Mr Mpho Bhuntse, Deputy Director from the Deputy Minister’s office in the Presidency responsible for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, highlighted that this programme aligns with the Human Rights Month objectives of ensuring dignity and protection for all citizens. He praised the initiative for its focus on empowering learners from primary through high school levels to become advocates against GBV.

Representatives from the SAPS addressed critical challenges in combating school-based GBV, particularly the lack of awareness and fear of using reporting mechanisms. Officers encouraged learners not to remain silent when threatened by perpetrators. They also addressed other concerning issues including corporal punishment, emotional abuse by educators, and the rising threat of cyberbullying and online harassment.

The dialogue identified several contributing factors to GBV in schools such as harmful gender norms and stereotypes that create power imbalances; inadequate policies and weak enforcement mechanisms; and a lack of support systems for victims. Speakers emphasised the impact of GBV on learners, including emotional and psychological trauma that often leads to anxiety, depression, decreased self-esteem and poor academic performance. To address these challenges, the programme outlined four key prevention and response strategies such as: Creating safe and inclusive schools and implementing zero-tolerance policies for all forms of GBV, as well as sexual and gender discrimination; Empowering learners and educating them about their rights and responsibilities, as well as equipping them with self-protection skills; Training educators and staff, ensuring teachers can identify, prevent and address GBV cases; and Strengthening reporting and support systems by establishing confidential reporting mechanisms and post-violence care and support services.

The GIZ representative confirmed their commitment to supporting this learner-led initiative, noting that empowering young people to lead prevention efforts creates more sustainable outcomes, in line with the Child and Youth Agency Framework of the Southern African Development Community (SADC). The programme launch concluded with a call for comprehensive preventive actions across the education system, involving professionals who work with victims, NGOs, media organisations, and the private sector to create widespread awareness and support for GBV prevention in schools. The School-Based GBV Prevention Advocacy Programme represents a significant step forward in creating safer and inclusive learning environments where all learners can thrive, free from violence and intimidation.