Crime, bullying and gangsterism flagged as top threats to Gauteng schools

The safety of learners in Gauteng schools is under serious strain, with communities across the province identifying crime, bullying, gangsterism and drug abuse as the major threats to school environments and educational outcomes, according to a post-consultative report from the provincial education department.

Findings from province-wide outreach

The report, published by Gauteng Education MEC Lebogang Maile following the “It Takes a Village to Raise a Child” outreach, is based on engagements with more than 11,000 residents between May and July. Parents, educators, learners and community leaders repeatedly raised concerns about violence in and around schools.

Concerns recorded during the engagement included violence, bullying, gangsterism, substance abuse, vandalism, weapons, intimidation and gender-based violence affecting schools and surrounding communities.

Impact on learning and calls for action

The MEC highlighted a link between unsafe communities and poor educational outcomes, saying that “learning cannot flourish where fear dominates” and stressing the need for environments where learners feel physically safe, emotionally secure and socially valued.

“Policing alone cannot solve violence,” Maile said, adding that parental involvement remained critical in addressing learner behaviour and safeguarding schools.

Communities called for measures including stronger visible policing around schools, intensified anti-drug campaigns, improved learner discipline and expanded psychosocial support services.

Partnership approach

While the report records demands for increased policing, the province said law enforcement on its own would not be sufficient. Maile warned that “schools cannot become islands surrounded by communities experiencing violence, crime and social instability.”

The province said it would continue to strengthen partnerships with the South African Police Service, Community Policing Forums, municipalities and social service professionals to improve safety around educational institutions.