This Child Protection Week and Beyond: Schools Must Be Safe, Not Scary

A recent report shows that at least 39 teachers across the country have been found guilty of sexual abuse against learners. And those are just the cases we know about. There are many more children who are suffering in silence, a Channel Africa article noted.

It added that according to the Education Labour Relations Council, most of these cases come from KwaZulu-Natal, followed by Gauteng. These numbers are shocking and simply not okay. They show that our systems in protecting children are failing and that urgent action is needed from government, education officials, school principals, parents, communities, and all of us.

Schools are supposed to be safe places where kids feel free to learn, grow, and dream. But for many children, school has become a place of fear and pain.

When teachers the very people meant to protect children are the ones doing harm, something is very wrong.

At Soul City Institute, we are heartbroken by these findings. We work with families, communities, and the government to promote a kind of education that protects and empowers children. Our young people are already doing the work. But they need a system that stands with them. We stand with all survivors of abuse. Every child has a right to be safe, respected, and heard.

This Child Protection Week and beyond, we are calling for:

• Stronger checks on teachers before and during their time in schools.

• Immediate action and court cases for those found guilty of abuse.

• A child protection officer in every school, and safe, easy ways for learners to report abuse.

• Free counselling for survivors.

• Training for all teachers and principals on gender, power, and children’s rights.

Children are not just our future they are our right now. We must protect them now.Let’s not allow Child Protection Week to be just another campaign. Let it lead to real, lasting change.

Because every child deserves to feel safe, loved, and free to thrive. This Child Protection Week and beyond let our actions speak louder than our outrage.