This Content is for Subscribers Only
Basic education minister Siviwe Gwarube has ordered provinces to immediately fire any teacher listed on the National Register for Sex Offenders on 26 November 2025. The directive comes as South Africa begins the 16 Days of Activism campaign and renews its focus on school safety. The department says pupils continue to face bullying, intimidation, and sexual abuse despite recent improvements.
What Happened?
The department confirmed that the instruction applies to all provinces. Officials say there can be no hesitation when a teacher is linked to sexual offences.
The department also expanded its Safe Schools Protocol with SAPS. The program requires schools to conduct regular safety audits, strengthen ties with local police stations, and improve reporting systems for violence or criminal incidents.
Minister Gwarube said the reality inside classrooms often mirrors the violence in families and communities.
“Violent communities often produce violent schools,” she said.
Official Response
Gwarube urged parents to take a more active role in guiding their children.
“Breaking the cycle needs all of us: families, communities and government to step up,” she said.
The department said it will scale up prevention and awareness campaigns. The goal is to reinforce one message to pupils: violence is not normal, not a solution and not a sign of strength.
Community Impact
Learners remain vulnerable to abuse, with many facing trauma at home and at school. The strengthened partnership with SAPS aims to improve early reporting and reduce repeat incidents. The department says community involvement will be essential as it tightens accountability measures across the education system.
