Safety measures in schools amid rising gang violence

The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) said recent gang violence has led to schools being closed early in the past week and that they cautioned the public to be wary of fake news.

Last week, schools in the jurisdiction of Lotus River and Grassy Park closed their doors earlier after one person was shot and killed and four others wounded including  a 72-year-old victim.

The WCED spokesperson, Bronagh Hammond confirmed that schools were closed following the shooting but asked parents to be mindful of social media alerts.

Days before that, gun violence forced Steenberg High School to also dismiss earlier for the day after a 21-year-old male was shot.

Hammond told Cape Argus that protocols were in place to make sure that both learners and staff were safe and that they were glad schooling was only interrupted for a few hours and not days.

“The recent flare ups in gang violence in certain communities has led some schools to close early following advice from local law enforcement agencies. Thankfully, this only affected teaching and learning for that day/afternoon at a limited number of schools,” she explained.

“There are standard measures and structures that are required to be in place at schools in terms of their safety protocols.

“This is to address any incident that may occur and is a threat to teaching and learning and safety of all persons at the school. 

“This includes how to react when there is gang violence, and the lockdown and communication requirements.”

 “Schools are also encouraged to forge partnerships with the neighbourhood watch, Community Policing Forum and especially the community that live in close proximity to the school. The schools are encouraged to liaise with their local police station to do periodic patrols.

 “The WCED chairs the Priority Committee on School Safety within the ProvJoints which is represented by all Departments whose goal is to promote safer school communities for learners and staff in the Western Cape through effective collaboration and partnerships. The Anti-Gang Strategy Priority Committee of the Provincial joints is led by POCS in addressing anti-gang intervention programmes.

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Cape Argus