SECTION27 and the Teddy Bear Foundation (TBF) welcome the opportunity to make submissions and provide input on the Department of Education’s proposed amendments to the Children’s Act 38 of 2005. SECTION27 is a public interest law organisation dedicated to advancing the right to basic education and healthcare in South Africa through research, advocacy, and litigation. TBF is a non-profit organization offering medico-legal and psycho-social support to abused children using a holistic approach.
In light of the 2019 Presidential Proclamation shifting the Early Childhood Development (ECD) function from the Department of Social Development to the Department of Basic Education (DBE), we support the DBE’s proposed amendments aimed at regulating the ECD sector. With extensive experience in advocating for children’s rights, both SECTION27 and TBF emphasize the DBE’s responsibility to ensure safe and conducive learning environments for children, free from sexual violence.
Our submission focuses on the effectiveness of the National Child Protection Register, especially its shortcomings within school settings. We will address proposed amendments in:
- Clause 9 – Application for ECD Programme registration
- Clauses 17, 18 & 19 – Part B of the Register
- General Comments
We highlight the urgent need to combat gender-based violence in educational institutions, noting the alarming rise in reported cases of sexual misconduct. This submission aims to strengthen protections for children within the ECD framework.
Read the submission here:
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