The Department of Basic Education has briefed the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education on progress made in ending school-related gender-based violence. They reported on measures to address gender equality in schools and promote gender-sensitive classroom environments.
Key findings from the 2020 Review on Violence Against Children in South Africa reveal that one in five children have experienced child sexual abuse, higher than global estimates. Physical abuse is more prevalent among girls, Black, and Coloured children.
The Department is implementing Comprehensive Sexuality Education, Girls Education Movement/Boys Education Movement (GBEM), and the Care and Support for Teaching and Learning (CSTL) framework to address gender equality and prevent GBV.
Key Initiatives To Combat GBV In Schools
The Department of Basic Education has implemented several initiatives to address gender-based violence in schools. These include Comprehensive Sexuality Education in both primary and secondary schools, which aims to provide age-appropriate information on sexual health, relationships, and consent.
Additionally, the Girls Education Movement/Boys Education Movement (GBEM) fosters gender equality values and promotes positive gender norms through peer education and life skills training.
To coordinate multi-sectoral support for schools, the Department has established the Care and Support for Teaching and Learning (CSTL) framework. This framework brings together various stakeholders to address the needs of schools and learners.
The Department has also collaborated with the Department of Women, Youth and People With Disabilities, the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Department of Correctional Services, and the Commission for Gender Equality to eradicate gender-based violence.
To address violence against children and adolescents, the Department has implemented the INSPIRE Framework. This framework outlines a range of interventions to prevent and respond to violence against children.
The Department will also be participating in the United Nations Girls Education Initiative (UNGEI), which aims to end school-related gender-based violence. Lastly, the Department has committed to delivering Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) in line with the UNESCO East & Southern Africa (ESA) commitment.
According to the DBE, more than 80% of girls who fell pregnant returned to school, and more girls enrolled in higher education than boys. They emphasise the importance of starting anti-GBV messages early at home and school.
They will continue to collaborate with other departments and agencies to create awareness and stop gender-based violence through initiatives like the “Let’s Talk” programme.
