The Department of Basic Education (DBE), in partnership with the Free State Provincial Government and various national departments, hosted a Inter-Departmental Campaign on the Prevention of Violence, Bullying, Corporal Punishment, Learner Pregnancy, Gender-Based Violence, Drugs, and Substance Abuse in schools at Lenyora La Thuto Secondary School in Botshabelo, Free State on 15 August 2025. This was the 7th Edition of the Campaign, following several editions rolled out in Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Eastern Cape and KwaZulu Natal provinces in the past few weeks. The campaign sought to address the social challenges that continue to affect teaching and learning in public schools, while strengthening collaboration across Government departments to tackle any form of social ill head-on.
As part of the campaign, the DBE team rolled out a series of targeted precursor- activities across secondary schools in the Mangaung Metro. Learners at Lereko Secondary School, Dr Viljoen Combined School, and Mpatleng Secondary School participated in awareness sessions focusing on bullying, School-Related Gender-Based Violence (SRGBV), and gangsterism. Educators also benefited from a capacity-building session on SRGBV, convened by the South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU). These initiatives reflected a united, multi-sectoral approach to ensuring that schools are safe spaces for growth, learning, and well-being.
Speaking directly to learners, Mr Sifiso Ngobese, Director for School Safety at the DBE, reminded members of school communities that the involvement of government leaders in the campaign was a demonstration of love and commitment towards combating SRGBV. “The services and activities brought closer to learners were designed to remove barriers to success,” said Mr Ngobese. He added that learners needed to rise above negativity through discipline, focus, and self-respect. “We believe in you. Focus on your books, believe in your potential, and love yourself enough to want a brighter future,” remarked Mr Ngobese.
Deputy Minister of Basic Education, Dr Reginah Mhaule, led the event alongside Deputy Ministers of Home Affairs and Communications and Digital Technologies, Mr Njabulo Nzuza, and Mr Mondli Gungubele respectively. The Deputy Ministers were supported by Premier of Free State Ms Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae flanked by the province’s MEC for Health, Mr Monyatso Mahlatsi. The collective leadership of Deputy Ministers and Premier and other officials from different departments delivered a powerful message of unity.
“The DBE remains committed to providing quality teaching and learning while ensuring school safety, calling on stakeholders, School Governing Bodies, School Management Teams, parents, municipalities, and communities to work together to create school environment that is conducive to learning,” emphasised Deputy Minister Mhaule. “Bullying has no place in our schools. Bullying is hurtful, and together we must end it,” she added.
Deputy Minister Nzuza further indicated that the importance of identity documents for learners to access higher education cannot be overemphasised. He encouraged the Basic Education Sector to continue encouraging the documentation of learners to unlock doors of learning beyond matric. Deputy Minister Gungubele highlighted the dangers of cyberbullying and urged stronger collaboration to protect learners. The campaign stood as a resounding reminder that safe schools are the foundation of quality education. By uniting government departments, educators, parents, learners and communities, it is a reaffirmation that no child should be denied the chance to learn, thrive, and dream in an environment free of fear. With collective responsibility, South Africa can build schools that nurture excellence, dignity, and hope for every learner.