Education
With reference to the ongoing concern of vandalism and damage to school infrastructure during school holiday periods: (a) What are the details of schools that have reported incidents of vandalism or theft during the most recent school holidays, (b) what is the estimated cost of repairs or replacement of damaged or stolen property during that period; and, (c) what are the preventative measures currently in place or being considered to safeguard school property during holidays?
My department has informed me of the following:
(a) A total of 26 incidents of burglary and vandalism were reported at 21 schools, with four schools experiencing more than one incident.
The incidents affected various locations within the school premises, including administration blocks, classrooms, storage containers, fencing, garden equipment, school halls, on-site residential houses, kitchens, outdoor areas (plumbing, wiring, and lighting), and storerooms.
Stolen items included fire hydrant copper heads, stationery, kettles, computer accessories, school desks, lighting fixtures, electrical wiring, plumbing components, computers, geysers, aluminium pipes, groceries (rice, milk, meat), clothing, mobile speakers, school stamps, sports equipment, cookware (pots and pans), microwaves, brass window handles, and taps.
Damage was reported to doors, windows, roofing, ceilings, fencing, locks (on doors and safety gates), cupboards, and gutters.
(b) The estimated cost of stolen and damaged items is R231 527.67.
(c) The department provides funding for holiday security subsidies at schools deemed high-risk. This program offers 12-hour security, 24-hour security, and cluster patrols to selected high-risk schools.
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Schools identified as high-risk could also benefit from a yearly subsidy for armed response. Other interventions may include the provision of burglar bars/stone guards, security gates, the automation of pedestrian and vehicular access gates and repairs to fencing up to 35 running meters.
Schools are encouraged to coordinate with their local police station for regular visible police patrols. Armed response companies are also urged to increase their patrols, as the presence of law enforcement is a strong deterrent to potential intruders.
The department stresses the importance of community vigilance in safeguarding schools. Residents are urged to report any suspicious activities to the South African Police Service (SAPS) or the Safe Schools hotline at 0800 45 46 47.
While the department has implemented comprehensive measures to secure school properties during holidays, the success of these efforts depends on community involvement and ongoing assessment to address evolving security threats.
