The Department of Basic Education (DBE), through its School Safety Directorate, conducted a School Safety District Support Intervention at Photo Primary School in the Sekhukhune East District’s Glen Cowie Circuit from 12 to 14 October 2026. Held under the theme “Strengthening Stakeholder Relations and districts in Preventing and Managing Violence in Schools”, the intervention brought together education officials and key stakeholders to strengthen coordinated efforts to prevent and manage violence in schools. The Directorate was supported by the Social Cohesion Directorate and the Education Management Development and Governance Directorate.

The programme focused on implementing the National School Safety Framework (NSSF), improving incident reporting, strengthening disciplinary procedures and protecting learners, educators and school infrastructure. Mr Sammy Maraba from the School Safety Directorate presented findings from the Auditor-General’s assessment of school safety programmes, emphasising the importance of functional school safety committees, evidence-based safety plans and accurate incident reporting. He also unpacked the NSSF, identifying bullying, substance abuse, overcrowding and inadequate parental supervision as some of the risks affecting school safety. Mr Maraba called for early intervention, regular risk assessments and stronger partnerships among schools, parents, communities and law enforcement agencies.

Mr Sifiso Ngobese, Director for School Safety, addressed proactive crime prevention, disaster risk management and emergency preparedness. He highlighted the need for collaboration with the South African Police Service, regular safety audits, evacuation plans and emergency drills. A representative from Labour Relations reinforced the prohibition of corporal punishment in schools and outlined educators’ responsibility to protect learners’ rights while following lawful disciplinary procedures.

Ms Dululu Hlatshaneni from the Social Cohesion Directorate, addressed the prevention and management of gender-based violence. She unpacked the Protocol on the Reporting and Management of Sexual Abuse and Harassment, emphasising accountability, appropriate reporting procedures, victim protection and cooperation between schools, education departments and law enforcement agencies. Mr Nkosana Thakgedi, Director for Education Management and Governance Development, outlined the role of School Governing Bodies (SGBs) in strengthening school safety committees and supporting the implementation of disciplinary procedures. He stressed the importance of due process and ensuring that disciplinary decisions comply with the South African Schools Act.

The intervention also included a practical school safety mapping exercise, enabling participants to identify potential hazards and areas requiring intervention. The exercise supported the development of practical safety measures aligned with the NSSF and helped participants apply the knowledge shared during the programme to the specific needs of the school.

The DBE’s engagement at Photo Primary School reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening stakeholder relations, promoting accountability and equipping school communities with the knowledge and tools needed to prevent and manage violence. It further highlighted the shared responsibility of education officials, schools, parents, communities, and law enforcement agencies in creating safe and supportive learning environments.