As the 2024 holidays continue, schools across Ekurhuleni are stepping up their security measures to prevent vandalism and theft. Many schools have hired private security, while others are relying on local community patrols to ensure their properties are safe. This proactive approach appears to be paying off, as several schools reported no incidents of break-ins or vandalism during the holiday period.
At schools in areas like KwaThema, security teams and community patrols have been active, keeping a watchful eye on school premises. “We have a chat group as patrollers, and so far, no incidents have been reported,” said one local school patroller. The heightened security presence has reassured both school staff and the local community, who have grown more vigilant in protecting their schools and resources.
Community leaders, such as Joy Nhlapo, are also praising the increased involvement of locals in safeguarding school properties. “It’s encouraging that communities are now actively guarding their schools. In the past, students would return to find their classrooms vandalized or equipment stolen. This new focus on protection shows a growing sense of responsibility,” Nhlapo remarked.
The Gauteng Department of Education has long battled the costs of school theft and vandalism, which amount to more than R10 million annually. In response, the department has urged communities to collaborate in keeping schools secure. In 2022, 120 schools were vandalized, with another 24 affected during the December holidays. The department is still investigating incidents from the previous year, but it remains hopeful that increased security will help reduce such incidents moving forward.