The Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane has engaged school principals, School Governing Body (SGB) members, and key stakeholders on the implementation of Operation Kgutla Molao.

Operation Kgutla Molao aims to address issues such as violence, sexual harassment, bullying, and the presence of illegal substances in schools while fostering an environment of stability, peace, and uninterrupted learning.

Speaking at a meeting held at Sizwe High School in Elandsfontein recently, Chilaone highlighted the programme’s positive impact since its launch in July at Qalabotjha Secondary School in Vlakfontein where learner discipline and staff morale has improved.

Sizwe and Qalabotjha are among the 75 prioritised schools on a list of 245 schools within the province identified as high-risk institutions.

“By addressing various safety concerns and collaborating with law enforcement, government agencies, communities, and organisations, they are actively working to create a safer and more secure learning environment for all,” Chiloane stated.

Chiloane emphasised that these initiatives prioritise the safety of both learners and staff while underscoring the importance of comprehensive training and awareness programs.

“As we move forward, the department remains steadfast in its dedication to ensuring that schools in the province become beacons of safety, learning, and growth for all students.”

Critical interventions of the programme include the deployment of armed security guards at each school, training of School Safety Committees, activation of e-Panic buttons, initiating patrols by Safety Wardens and installation of CCTV cameras in school.

“These are not individual cameras that could be viewed by the SGB or the principal alone; these are a direct feed and will run permanently,” said the MEC.

Chiloane said the installation of cameras will initially commence in 19 schools and eventually expand to include all schools across the province.