SAPS launch safer schools initiative
“Safety in and around schools is a significant barrier to learning."
Following a meeting held at Edenglen High School, Edenvale SAPS embarked on an initiative to promote safer schools through stakeholder engagement.
The initiative, implemented on September 26, will ensure secure and orderly learning environments.
It comes after SAPS met with Edenglen High School staff and security personnel to discuss the threats learners face in the community.
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Edenvale SAPS communications officer Warrant Officer Jacob Mashile said the goal is to increase police officers’ involvement to foster safe and disciplined school environments.
“Safety in and around schools is a significant barrier to learning,” said Lieutenant Colonel Lionel Chetty, head of Edenvale’s Visible Policing Unit.
“Crime, violence, and abuse affect our community.
“Schools are not always free from fear, intimidation, or victimisation.”
Mashile said Edenvale SAPS is dedicated to preventing, managing, and responding to incidents of crime and violence in and around schools in collaboration with the CPF.
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The SAPS encouraged schools to establish and maintain a school safety committee.
The committee should consist of internal stakeholders of the school, such as learners, educators, School Governing Body members, and school security personnel.
External role players should include SAPS members, the local ward councillor, social workers, and the CPF.
