Teaching is becoming a dangerous job: Sadtu

The South African Democratic Teachers Union (Sadtu) says being a teacher in South Africa is becoming dangerous, with educators not knowing whether they will go back home alive.

Speaking to YNews, Sadtu’s Xolani Fakude says even aspirant teachers are now losing interest in the profession due to fear.

His assertions come hot on the heels of several incidents, including the recent stabbing of a learner by his peer at an Eldorado Park school, in Johannesburg.

Naptosa’s Basil Manuel agrees with Sadtu and says more needs to be done to better protect educators who, he says, are under siege.

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) says the violence at schools is a reflection of the society they live in, which is also apparent during protests where infrastructure is often vandalised.

DBE spokesperson, Elijah Mhlanga, is urging parents to work with them and instill good values in children.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) says government needs to review the school safety strategy to better protect learners and teachers.

What’s happening in our education sector, specifically in our township schools when it comes to safety of Teachers & learners is really scary 😦. I plead with @Lesufi @DBE_SA @SAPoliceService to deploy New police personnel (Green uniform)to each school to insure safety. Thanks

— bongz_kubanks (@bongzbanks) August 8, 2024

Gauteng Education must urgently enhance the security measures in schools to ensure the safety of learners, teachers and staff.#Mboro’s behaviour is reprehensible and must be condemned in strongest possible terms and no one is permitted to enter a school & threaten either of them!

— Lehlohonolo Lehana (@LehlohonoloL_SA) August 6, 2024

💯 Many serious issues face schools in South Africa but safety in schools should be a number one priority for government. Number one. I say this as a psychologist who has worked in multiple SA schools

— Mikhail Jansen (@mikhailjansen) August 6, 2024