Safety in semi-urban schools of limpopo Province :A case of Mankweng Circuit

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.