JOHANNESBURG - The Justice Department launched its annual back-to-school campaign targeting bullying and statutory rape.
Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi says a voice beyond parents and teachers can help pupils grasp these issues.
She stressed that protecting children now prevents criminal behaviour later.
“Bullying will not necessarily be a criminal offence where a person ends up in crime unless there is assault. What we do is to educate, partner and support the Department of Education," said Kubayi.
READ | Government calls on society to act against bullying in schools
"A different voice than a parent and teacher does help for children to reflect, not every child that does something wrong should be a loss case. We have to be able to try to teach them.
"Preserve these kids. Not to end up in the criminal system. Before they get involved in hardcore issues of crime, let's prevent them so that they don’t end up being criminals in our society,” she added.
Speaking at a back-to-school engagement in Eldorado Park on Monday, Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube also emphasised school safety.
“When our schools are unsafe, learning suffers. When learners feel threatened, dignity is stripped away, and when violence becomes normalised, we as adults are failing our children,” Gwarube said.