In support of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign, the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) has joined many organisations across the country to increase awareness, galvanise advocacy efforts and share knowledge and innovations during this period.
The department’s Unathi Booi said schools across the province are taking part in this campaign through awareness programmes that include learner dialogues against gender-based violence (GBV), forming human chains to show support and solidarity against GBV and taking part in care and dignity initiatives for victims of rape and sexual abuse.
“The WCED has also encouraged all staff at Head Office and district offices to take part in this global initiative,” she said.
“While the WCED has a role to play in the lives of young people, we certainly cannot do it on our own.
“This is why our focus in this period is not only on raising awareness among our learners, but we have also included the school communities and parents.”
Initiatives include empowering parents with positive discipline strategies, equipping parents with information about GBV and where they can get help as well as empowering parents on child safety and sexual grooming.
The WCED runs various initiatives throughout the year that focus on aspects of GBV, behaviour and moral values.
For example, through its Transform to Perform (T2P) strategy, the WCED wishes to nurture learners by instilling values in them, so they will act with respect towards others, whether it be an educator, staff member or learner.
The department is also driving a Values programme in schools.
“We have conducted extensive training of educators in Values in Education,” Booi said.
“Schools have been asked to choose values and to explain, talk, show and live these values.
“These values include respect for one another, kindness, caring and more. Schools are to have ongoing discussions with learners on values and to undertake in various initiatives that showcase them.”
She added another programme run by the WCED is the Positive Behaviour Programme, which is a strengths-based approach on disciplining and guiding children and youth.
Booi explained that every district has a positive behaviour support programme that capacitates teachers in dealing with disruptive behaviours in the classroom and other strategies, including anti-bullying, classroom management, building a restorative code of conduct, peace discipline and diversity programmes.
“Lastly, we urge all our learners who experience any kind of abuse to call our Safe Schools toll free on 0800 45 46 47. Counselling support can be provided and referrals are made to the relevant authorities.”
