dc.description.abstract |
Safety in schools is not only a South African issue, but a global challenge too. The
study focused on safety in semi-urban schools of Limpopo Province, Mankweng
Circuit. The purpose of this study was to investigate factors that affect learners’
safety and to propose ways in which safe schools could be created so that these
become centres of learning and where effective teaching takes place. A qualitative
approach was used in this study via the use of a purposive sampling method. The
sample for this study consisted of 3 learners selected from each 3 different schools.
Data was collected through three methods: interviews, observations and written
documents. Semi-structured interviews were used to interview learners. The present
researcher took five to ten minutes to observe the school before starting the
interviews. Substance abuse policy, Minutes for sub-committee for safety and
Incidents of violence were used as written documents. The data collected was
explicated using step-by-step guide. The study found that some schools in
Mankweng Circuit are not safe. Fighting, stabbing, and using drugs and dagga,
teenage pregnancy and threats take place on school premises and some of the
learners even brought drugs and weapons into school premises. Results also
indicated there is a strong partnership between parents and law enforcement
agencies for instance polices are working together in the provision of safety
measures in schools. As part of the study recommendations, all discarded materials
such as broken chairs, tables and blackboards are stored far away from the learners’
classes and gate. |
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