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The DA will submit a parliamentary question to the Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu MP, regarding what steps his Department has taken to enhance learner safety in South African schools in light of the latest quarterly crime statistics.

We further call on the Minister to engage with the Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, to create a multi-departmental approach to launch campaigns that will minimise opportunities for abuse, and positively influence parent, teacher, and learner behaviours.

The DA is seriously concerned with what has been revealed upon the release of the first quarter 2024/25 crime statistics regarding crimes that are committed on the grounds of educational institutions.

From April to June 2024, it was reported that 12 murders, 18 attempted murders, and 256 counts of assault with the intent of causing grievous bodily harm were committed at educational institutions such as schools, universities, colleges, and day care facilities.

Furthermore, 91 rape crime scenes are reported to be primary, secondary, or high schools of which 44 of these scenes involved learners committing this heinous crime against other learners in schools.

Considering the fact that rapes are often not reported, these statistics might be significantly underestimated and are a shocking reminder of how far we still need to go as a country to ensure learner safety and raise awareness on matters of gender-based violence that will empower learners to speak out against such atrocious violations.

Issued by Ciska Jordaan MP - DA Deputy Spokesperson on Basic Education