​Qaqambile Mdledle
Community Safety MEC, Faith Mazibuko has called on communities to work with government in the fight to eradicate bullying and break-ins in schools.
Mazibuko was speaking during School Safety Indaba in Sebokeng following incidents of bullying, gangsterism, break-ins as well as violence against learners and educators within Gauteng schools.
"I call on all resident, young and old, city dwellers and rural dwellers, modernists and traditionalists to be part of the prevention efforts to fight crime that are sorely needed in homes and in our school," said MEC Mazibuko.
The School Safety Indaba was aimed at unpacking the safety challenges and develop a common approach in tackling them in an effort to enhance learning and teaching in schools.
MEC emphasised that the Department has been assisting schools through the patroller programme and road safety amongst others. 
"We want to see our children passing their grades at the end of the day. Parents must play their part in nurturing, supporting these learners while teachers also do their part," she said
MEC Mazibuko noted that over 350 schools have been vandalised in Gauteng since the Covid-19 lockdown in March 202o.  
"You do not need to be School Governing Body members , to be active in the school. As parents, you must also rise up. Come to programmes that empower the schools," said MEC.
Department of Correctional Services representative, Pule Motsoaleli said community must ensure that there is authority in schools and maintain a high level of discipline.
"Schools must allow Correctional Services employees to come and speak to the learners, to warn and advise them about the consequences of wrong actions," said Motsoaleli.