Education minister calls for safe, bully-free schools

THE Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, emphasised the urgent need for safety and dignity for learners across South African schools an event held at Eldorado Park secondary school.

- SIYABONGA SITHOLE

Yesterday, the minister was joined by Gauteng MEC for education, Matome Chiloane, at the school as part of the 2026 Back-to-School Campaign, reinforcing the government's commitment to safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environments.

Gwarube delivered a keynote address, saying that at the heart of quality education is the promise of safety, dignity, and care for every child.

She further emphasised the connection between school safety and effective learning, and stressed that when schools are unsafe, or learners feel threatened, education suffers.

Safe schools, she noted, must be places of care, discipline and respect, where learners feel confident and protected.