As the country prepares to start Child Protection  Week, there have been disturbing reports
of  children being abused in several
schools in the  Gauteng province. Last
week, the Gauteng  Department of
Education opened a criminal case against 
a teacher who allegedly raped a grade 10 learner and the teacher was
reported to be on the run. As we were still shocked by this incident, on
Tuesday the department again reported that two teachers have been arrested for
raping a pupil. And finally, on Wednesday the department reported that a
teacher who was seen on a video that went viral assaulting a grade R child has
been dismissed. 
30th of May to the 6th of June marks Child Protection Week. The week is
commemorated annually countrywide to raise awareness of the rights of children
as articulated in the constitution and the Children Act. Act No. 38 of 2005. 
The campaign is led by the Department of Social Development in
partnership with key government departments and civil society organizations
rendering child protection services. This year, the week will be celebrated under
the theme: Let us protect children during Covid-19 and Beyond.
The incidents of the past week are a concern that despite these efforts
child abuse continues an abated. Government calls on all South Africans to
support Child Protection Week by ensuring that the most vulnerable in our
society do not suffer abuse. It is in our hands to stop the cycle of neglect,
abuse, violence and exploitation of children.
Children in South Africa live in a society with a Constitution that has
the highest regard for their rights and for the equality of everyone.
Protecting children from violence, exploitation and abuse is not only a basic
value but an obligation as set out in the Constitution of South Africa.
If you come across a cases of child abuse, please report them to nearest
offices of the department or contact the Gender Base Command Centre hotline
0800 428 428. If you want to speak to a Social Worker from the centre dial *120*7867#.
You can also call Childline: 0800 055 555.