Here’s how many reports of abuse and neglect Gauteng schools have received in recent years

In Gauteng, schools have received over 22,000 reports of abuse and neglect in the past few years, according to a recent provincial education department report. These reports encompass a range of incidents, including emotional, physical, sexual, and financial abuse. While a small number of cases occurred directly at schools, the majority were identified by staff through the department's learner psychosocial support directorate (LPSD).

The LPSD, supported by nearly 120 social workers and district-based teams, managed these cases and referred them to appropriate authorities when necessary. In total, 22,020 abuse reports were documented, with 155 incidents occurring at schools, including 15 cases of corporal punishment, 34 instances of bullying, 10 pupil fights, and more severe occurrences like stabbings and a school shooting.

The LPSD noted that 3,022 cases needed clinical counselling, including 1,118 children affected by rape or sexual assault, 435 by physical and emotional abuse, and 369 who experienced neglect. Additionally, the helpline received 18,843 reports of abuse, covering various forms such as child begging, prostitution, starvation, inadequate clothing, and substance abuse.

The department's director of education, Maile, emphasized the need for a centralized case-tracking system with enforceable investigation deadlines to ensure all reports are addressed. She stressed that addressing these issues requires a collective effort from the community, including parents, educators, and social institutions. Maile urged parents to become active participants in their children's education, emphasizing that children's values and behaviors are primarily shaped at home.