SADTU raises alarm over rising violence and indiscipline in South African schools

The South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (SADTU) has sounded the alarm over a growing crisis in the nation’s schools, highlighting a disturbing trend of learner indiscipline and violence that is prompting educators to leave the profession in increasing numbers.

This issue has reached critical proportions, particularly in the Western Cape, where recent figures from the Department of Education revealed an astonishing 96 reported cases of learners assaulting teachers in the early months of the year.

“We view any assault on an educator as a critical issue that threatens the stability of the schooling system,” warns SADTU spokesperson Nomusa Cembi.

Cembi emphasises the necessity of establishing a supportive and safe environment for both students and teachers, asserting that current conditions are jeopardising this stability.

In a proactive effort to address the escalating crisis, SADTU has approached the Department of Labour, proposing an expansion of the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (COIDA) to include protections for teachers who are victims of physical assaults while carrying out their duties.

Cembi stated, “We feel that the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act should now extend to cover such incidents,” highlighting the critical need for teachers to be recognised as professionals entitled to protection against workplace violence.

However, the challenges facing assaulted teachers extend far beyond physical injuries.

The union has raised concerns about the inadequate psychological support available to those affected by violence in schools.

Many educators are forced to navigate their recovery independently, grappling with the financial burden of securing trauma therapy while receiving insufficient help from government resources.

“When one has to procure counselling services, that requires money, and there’s no compensation from the department,” Cembi explained.

“Yes, the department does have wellness programmes, but we feel that sometimes they are not enough.”

This lack of adequate psychological assistance compounds the difficulties faced by educators who experience violence, leaving them vulnerable both physically and mentally.