Northern Cape top cop congratulates Class of 2025, urges school safety as 2026 term begins

NORTHERN Cape provincial commissioner Lieutenant-General Koliswa Otola has extended her heartfelt congratulations to the Matric Class of 2025 on their “momentous achievements”.

“Wishing you all the best for your future endeavours, and may your success open doors to new opportunities,” she said.

Otola stressed that the police will work to keep learners safe during the 2026 school year, protecting them from violence, dangerous weapons, threats, theft, bullying, harassment and the sale or use of illegal substances on school premises.

To help create a secure environment, the provincial police have issued a set of safety guidelines for learners, school transport drivers and parents.

Learners

• Stay alert – walk attentively, don’t use electronic devices or earphones while walking to and from school.
• Only walk on the pavement and crosswalks, and look both ways before you cross a road.
• Check your crossing distance from the school transport if you cross in front of it.
• Make eye contact with the driver of a vehicle when crossing a street.
• Never accept lifts from strangers.
• Trust your instincts – if you think something is wrong and report it.
• If you are a victim, get help immediately.
• Make as much noise as you can to alert teachers and other learners when you are in trouble.
• Don’t physically intervene in fights – you could get hurt yourself, rather inform the teacher or school security.
• Always have an emergency contact with you.
•  Report school bullying and any criminality to your teacher, principal and parents.

School transport drivers

• Stop and yield for pedestrians crossing at a crosswalk or intersection.
• Don’t overtake a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk.
• Slow down and be attentive around school zones.
• Stay off cell phones while driving around school zones.
• Always stop for a school patrol officer or crossing guard.
• Watch for bicycles coming from driveways or behind parked cars.
• Make eye contact with pedestrians who are crossing the street.

Parents

• Teach your child the proper way to get on and off the school transport.
• Always remind your child to walk on the pavement or walk facing oncoming traffic in the absence of a pavement.
• Ensure that your child is buckled up when transported to school.
• Have regular conversations with your child about school safety, driving practices, and road traffic laws to ensure they understand the rules of the road.
• Be mindful of any changes in your child’s behaviour or demeanour.

Report suspicious activity to the SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111 or via the MySAPS app. The Childline helpline at 116 is also available for confidential support.

The police, together with school authorities and community partners, will continue to monitor school premises and respond to incidents throughout the year.