Question NW2244 to the Minister of Basic Education

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06 September 2017 - NW2244

Profile picture: Mhlongo, Mr TW

Mhlongo, Mr TW to ask the Minister of Basic Education

(a) Has her department investigated the cause of the high rate of learner pregnancies at (i) Tipfuxeni Secondary School and (ii) Masiqhakaze Secondary School; if not, in each case why not; if so, (aa) has specific support been directed to the specified schools to reduce the rate of pregnancy and (bb) what are the relevant details?

Reply:

(a) (i). According to data extracted from the Education Management Information System (EMIS), there were five pregnancies reported by Tipfuweni Secondary School in 2016.

(ii). Masiqhakaze Secondary School reported 34 pregnancies in 2016 through EMIS. This represents 4% of the girl leaners enrolled in the school.

(aa). Yes

(bb). The community within which the school is located in Ekurhuleni is plagued by a host of social ills. The programmes implemented in the school include the following:

  • ADAPT programme with the non-governmental organisation People Opposed to Women Abuse (POWA) focusing on health education, prevention of learner pregnancy and sexual violence;
  • Peer Education programme with eleven trained peer educators in each grade. Youth camps are also held with the peer educators;
  • The Centre for Positive Care facilitates workshops for vulnerable girls;
  • The Department has placed a Learner Support Agent (child care coordinator) in the school to support learners to access various services;
  • Nurses and social workers form the Departments of Health and Social Development respectively, assist the school with services as required.

 

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