The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education is set to hold a School Safety Conference, according to MEC Sipho Hlomuka.
This comes after fatal incidents at schools in the last week.
The department said a pupil was killed by other pupils at Gedlembane High School in Mpumalanga province on Friday and in Nongoma an Isihlahlasenkosi High School pupil was fatally stabbed on Monday.
Also on Monday, a teacher was shot and killed at Phikiswayo Primary School in Ntuzuma in Durban.
The department said one of the many priorities with regards to the provision of quality education in the province, is school security and safety.
“To this end, the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Sipho Hlomuka has announced a School Safety conference that will take place with all role-players in education to sensitise learners, educators, parents and the community on the importance of creating a safe and conducive school environment for teaching and learning to take place,” he said.
The department said the sharp rise in school related violence is of serious concern.
"Schools are considered sacred places of teaching and learning and as such, we as a department are very concerned about the recent rise in the levels of school violence, that has rocked and sent shockwaves across the province of KwaZulu-Natal. We have to work with all stakeholders including law-enforcement agencies to curb the rise in school violence and crime," said the MEC.
Hlomuka.said the department is shocked by the recent fatal incidents.
“These incidents are a clear indication of a breakdown in the values of respect, tolerance, and empathy among our youth. The fact that weapons are being carried into schools is deeply disturbing and demands urgent attention,” he said in relation to the murders of the two pupils.
The MEC called on parents and guardians to take responsibility for the safety of our children by thoroughly checking their belongings for any dangerous items.
He added that bullying remains a significant underlying factor in many of these violent incidents. “The department reiterates the call for a culture of respect and tolerance in all the schools. Learners must feel safe and supported to report incidents of bullying without fear of reprisal.”
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the schools, families and friends of the victims of these senseless acts of violence. We appeal to the public to assist us in creating a safe and conducive learning environment for all our learners,” said Hlomuka.
Education head of department, Nkosinathi Ngcobo, visitied Phikiswayo Primary on Tuesday to address educators following Monday's tragic incident.
He offered condolences and support to those affected and reaffirmed the Department's commitment to safety and well-being in our schools.
The Mercury