Statement by Cameron Dugmore, MEC for Education in the Western Cape

"I appreciate the fact that Cosas is as concerned about the levels of crime and violence in and among our schools.

"The challenge of building safer learning environments are huge, and we get constant reminders of the need to speed up our efforts and initiatives to help make this a reality.

"We already have a safe schools programme in place, which I am committed to review with a view to strengthen it. But we can always do more.

"Already certain initiatives are at an advanced stage, which include the appointment of Learning Support Officers, whose task would be to assist schools with creating a climate conducive to enhancing the culture of learning and teaching.

"If indeed we are going to build this province into a Learning Home for All, we need Cosas to become a partner with government in addressing some of the issues they are raising. When I meet with Cosas in the next few weeks, I shall discuss the those issues with them."

For enquiries, contact Gert Witbooi: 082 550 3938, or gwitbooi@pgwc.gov.za.