By: Nothando Mkhize

Members of South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU) and Congress of South African Students (COSAS) marched yesterday for safety and security in schools, along with
high school learners at Inanda.

The march was from the Ohlange sports grounds to the Inanda Police Station.

SADTU’s Mafukuzela Branch of the EThekwini North Region along with COSAS, took a stand to raise awareness for the need of safety and security of learners and teachers in
schools.

A petition was signed on the request and was to be handed to the Chairperson of the Department of Education.

Lieutenant Gabi Simelane, Communication Officer at Inanda Police Station said, “The petition entailed issues such as the need for patrol officers, the need for department registered
securities, the visibility of crime prevention officers, funding for proper fencing and other security related matters.”

Spokesperson of COSAS, Aziwe Xolelo, said that she is happy that the march was a success and students were finally able to express their cries.

“Safety in the school environment is very important and we have to reclaim our rights.

Approximately 3000 learners of 10 schools supported the march,” she added.

According to the secretary of SADTU Mafukuzela Branch, Oyama Tutulwana, five learners from Mqawe High School in uMzinyathi were allegedly arrested in June for killing two
suspects that had entered their school during lunch break in an attempt to rape school girls and steal cellphones from them.

“We had to fight really hard as SADTU for those learners to be released because all they were doing was to protect the others. All this would not have occurred if there were securities
on the premises,” said Tutulwana.

Simelane ensured that the matter will be handed to the Department of Education and then handed back to the police to discuss a way forward.