The Basic Education Department has reiterated calls for communities to be involved in protecting schools from vandalism.
The appeal was made as the department launched the National Inclusive Safer Schools Programme in the Eastern Cape.
The programme focuses on violence at schools and the campaign against vandalism of school infrastructure.
Pefferville Primary in East London has repeatedly been the target of vandals in recent months.
Parents have even protested to put the spotlight on the problem.
The vandalism not only damages infrastructure, but it is also robbing the learners of time in class.
Basic Education Minister, Angie Motshekga, says communities should come together to fight the scourge.
Two learners, Olwethu Nyanda and Uyazi Mafuna, are equally concerned about the impact that bullying and vandalism have on their academic progress.
The Executive Mayor of the Buffalo City Metro, Princess Faku, says the metro remains a cable theft hotspot.
“It is a struggle, but we believe it’s not only us that can fight the battle, we need communities and NGOs to fight this battle.”
Minister Motshekga is due to return to the Eastern Cape next month to monitor the progress made in addressing infrastructure challenges at numerous schools.
VIDEO | Appeal for protection of schools’ infrastructure:
