- Gender Equality Commission warns against schools forcing parents to escort pregnant learners.
- Concerns raised over teacher sexual abuse and unsafe school environments.
- Parliament committee urged schools to comply with the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill.
- Issues include drugs, weapons, and violence in schools.
The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) has raised alarm over schools that force parents of pregnant learners to accompany them daily until they give birth.
CGE CEO, Dr Denis Matotoba, said this practice undermines learners’ rights and goes against existing education policies that clearly outline how pregnant learners should be supported.
“We have already written to the Department of Basic Education about our concerns. Pregnant learners often drop out because of the pressure that their parents must monitor them every day,” Matotoba told Parliament’s Basic Education Portfolio Committee.
Teacher misconduct and abuse
The hearing also revealed disturbing reports of teachers and principals allegedly impregnating learners. Members of Parliament expressed outrage, saying teachers are supposed to act as protectors, not abusers.
EFF MP Mandla Shikwambana demanded accountability, asking how many learners had been impregnated by teachers in schools. He condemned the conduct, describing it as
“predatory behaviour in broad daylight.”
School safety concerns
Beyond pregnancy-related issues, MPs raised concerns about safety in schools. Reports of drug use, smoking in toilets, and violence among learners were flagged as serious challenges.
Committee members stressed the need for stronger security, more police presence around schools, and stricter monitoring of teachers.
Matotoba added that violence, weapons, and substance abuse continue to threaten learners’ well-being, with some dropping out because schools are unsafe or located too far away.
BELA Bill protections
Committee chairperson Joy Maimela reminded schools that the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill explicitly protects pregnant learners from discrimination. Schools are legally obliged to allow learners to continue their studies during pregnancy and return after childbirth.
“Schools must follow the law. Pregnant learners must be supported, not stigmatised or excluded,” Maimela emphasised.