South Africa’s education system is in crisis, with over 100 cases of school sexual misconduct currently being investigated. Gender-based Violence (GBV) advocacy groups demand urgent and systemic changes to protect students, particularly young girls, against sexual abuse and harassment in schools.
Recent reports revealed shocking statistics by the South African Council of Educators. The SACE recorded a rise in reported misconduct from 92 incidents in 2019/2020 up to 191 incidents in 2021/2022. These numbers are based on reported incidents. However, due to stigma and fears of retaliation, the real figures could be much higher.
Trends of Sexual Misconduct at Schools
SACE and the Department of Basic Education have both acknowledged that there has been an increase in cases of sexual misconduct at school, with many of these cases involving teachers who abuse their authority. Some learners have been preyed on by teachers, school staff, or even other students.
A briefing issued by the Democratic Alliance in 2023 states that only four educators have been removed from the teaching rolls despite 191 reported cases within a year. This indicates a systemic failure in the disciplinary process and accountability.
The protection of our children is the primary responsibility of all of us. In a recent press statement, a spokesperson for the Department of Education said that it was time to move on from indignation and take action.
GBV Activists Demand Comprehensive Reforms
Women and Men Against Child Abuse, the Centre for Applied Legal Studies and other civil society groups have condemned the government for its inadequate response to GBV. They claim that, beyond policy documents and oversight, there are critical deficiencies in implementation, survivor support, and implementation.
It is not enough that policies are in place if they’re not enforced. Survivors are traumatized not only by the abuse, but also by the system designed to protect them,” says Miranda Jordan, Director of WMACA.
Experts agree that a coordinated strategy at the national level is necessary, involving the Department of Basic Education and the Department of Social Development as well as advocacy groups for GBV. GBV does not only include physical abuse. It also includes harassment, coercion and creating unsafe learning environments, which disproportionately impact female learners.
Historical context and cultural challenges
In South Africa, school sexual misconduct is not a new phenomenon. Human Rights Watch published a report in 2001 that described schools as places where sexual violence is normalized. Male teachers and students target girls with impunity.
Despite some progress, the culture of victim-blaming and silence that has persisted for decades continues to prevent survivors from speaking out. Many students fear retribution, lack psychological support, and are discouraged at the slow pace of justice.
A Call for Stronger Safeguarding Policies at Schools
Both academic institutions and education unions are calling for more safeguarding in schools. In a 2019 report, the United Nations Girls’ Education Initiative and African education unions noted that:
“Gender-based violence in schools is a violation both of the right to a quality education as well as the right to decent work conditions.” “Teachers, students, and school staff all must be part of the solutions.”
Safeguarding policies should include regular screening of educators, confidential reporting for students, suspensions during investigations and mandatory GBV education for all staff.
The role of parents and communities
In addition to schools, parents and communities play an important role in preventing sexual misconduct at school. GBV thrives when communication is discouraged and shame is used against victims. Parents are encouraged by advocacy groups to speak openly to their children about their rights and bodily autonomy.
SGBs also require training and support in order to monitor misconduct effectively and ensure that disciplinary actions are swift and transparent. In light of recent incidents, the Gauteng Department of Education announced its intention to expand parental-engagement programmes.
Towards a Support and Accountability-Driven System
Transparency and accountability must be non-negotiables when it comes to the fight against GBV. This includes:
- Establishing dedicated GBV Units in Provincial Education Departments
- Counselling survivors and providing legal assistance
- Increasing the investigative capacity and prosecution of child protection units. Moreover, education about consent, gender equality, and respectful relationships should be incorporated into the Life Orientation Curriculum from the primary school level.
End Silence
The rapid increase in cases of school sexual misconduct is a national emergency that requires immediate and sustained action. GBV is not a problem that can be considered in isolation of education policy, child safety, or systemic injustice. The country must act now as GBV groups continue raising the alarm.
School governance and reform must place the protection of students, particularly vulnerable girls, at its core. Schools cannot be safe places for learning until then.
