LEARNERS from Pinetown Girls’ High School and Pinetown Boys’ High School united on Tuesday morning in support of the growing national movement, #JusticeForCwecwe, calling for justice, accountability, and safer schools.

Student leaders from both schools stood in solidarity outside Pinetown Girls’ High School, holding placards and raising awareness about the case that has shaken the country. The campaign stems from a tragic incident in October 2024, when a seven-year-old girl known as “Cwecwe,” was allegedly sexually assaulted at her primary school. Since then, despite growing public outcry, no arrests have been made, prompting nationwide protests and online activism.

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The learners’ demonstration is part of a broader wave of peaceful marches, school-led protests, and social media campaigns that have taken place across South Africa in recent weeks. The campaign has called attention to this specific case, and to the wider issue of gender-based violence and child safety in educational spaces.

Pinetown Boys’ High School life orientation teacher Nokuthula Hadebe said the campaign was a timely opportunity to link classroom lessons with real-world issues.

“It was the learners’ idea to join the campaign, and we couldn’t agree more. It’s important for young people to not only be aware of social issues but to actively participate. This offers them a practical example of what it means to be engaged and be empathetic citizens,” said Hadebe.

Abongwe Mbambo, a learner at Pinetown Girls’ High, said their involvement was driven by a deep sense of responsibility.

“It is heartbreaking that a young girl was sexually assaulted on school premises. Schools should be places of learning and safety. We joined the campaign to demand better protection in our schools — not just for Cwecwe, but for all learners across the country,” she said.

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According to the SAPS, thousands of cases of sexual offences against minors are reported each year, many taking place in what should be safe environments such as homes and schools. The #JusticeForCwecwe movement is the latest in a string of youth-led efforts that seek to challenge systemic failures in how cases of child abuse are handled.

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