Operation Kgutla Molao in effect to curb crime at schools

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Operation Kgutla Molao will address disciplinary action against educators and non-education staff alleged to be involved in sexual harassment or violence.

Operation Kgutla Molao in effect to curb crime at schools — MEC Chiloane said Operation Kgutla Molao will ensure that the majority of schools are relatively stable. **Image:** *Education GP*

Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane launched the “Operation Kgutla Molao” School Safety Programme on Thursday at Qalabotjha Secondary School in Vlakfontein.

This comes after noted concerns that frequent occurrence of incidents involving stabbing, violence and gangsterism in and around schools in the province.

MEC Chiloane said Operation Kgutla Molao has been developed to address some of these issues and ensure that the majority of schools are relatively stable, peaceful and disruption-free.

Today we launched #OperationKgutlaMolao, a School Safety Programme with support from @GP_CommSafety Crime Prevention Wardens and @SAPoliceService to safeguard the future of our learners all whilst providing effective learning and teaching @EducationGP1 pic.twitter.com/9i7WjgHYae
— Matome Chiloane (@matomekopano) July 20, 2023

“Even though the reported incidents take place in only a few Gauteng schools, they are no less concerning.

“Violence, sexual harassment, bullying and the carrying of weapons and illegal substances are acts that are unwelcome at our schools and should be widely condemned even beyond our institutions.

“A stable and peaceful environment is essential to effective learning and teaching. Incidents of violence and other crimes disrupt learning and teaching, leaving victims emotionally or physically hurt, families traumatised, and in some instances, takes lives.

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“Operation Kgutla Molao will address these incidents by taking actions such as the suspension of learners involved in violence or sexual harassment.

“Disciplinary action against educators and non-education staff alleged to be involved in sexual harassment or violence and also face trial.

“We have developed Operation Kgutla Molao to safeguard the wellbeing and future of learners from destructive behaviour and social ills.

“With integrated support from various law enforcement and community safety structures, we will be able to diminish acts of misconduct and pave way to focus on providing effective learning and teaching at schools across the province,” said MEC Chiloane.

The MEC further added that beyond these reactive measures, Operation Kgutla Molao will follow a safe school strategy ensuring that there is a national school safety policy that is standardized.