Urgent call for reform as sexual violence surges in schools

Violence in South Africa Schools has reached alarming levels.

EXPERTS are urging immediate action to combat the troubling rise of sexual violence in South African schools, highlighting the urgent need for systemic reform and effective safeguarding measures.

Adeshini Naicker, the director of Childline KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), said while the findings were deeply concerning, it was “unfortunately not surprising”.

“We regularly receives reports involving sexual violence and sexual misconduct in schools. Allegations range from grooming and inappropriate sexual comments to sexual touching, sexual assault and abuse of power by adults in positions of trust. We also receive reports involving peer-on-peer sexual abuse between pupils.

“Most concerning is the gap between reported cases and successful convictions or safeguarding measures. Delayed reporting, intimidation of victims and poor follow-through in some cases can prevent children from receiving justice and leave other children at risk,” she said.