KWASA HIGH SCHOOL LEADS EFFORTS TO EMPOWER AND PROTECT LEARNERS DURING CHILD PROTECTION MONTH IN ZULULAND DISTRICT

By Tholakele Makena

• ⁠Learners and educators at Kwasa High School participated in Child Protection Month build-up sessions focused on preventing abuse, exploitation, and neglect while fostering open discussions on issues such as HIV, AIDS, and sexual and reproductive health.
• Despite infrastructure challenges, such as limited recreational facilities and a science laboratory in need of maintenance, the school remains focused on academic improvement and learner well-being.
• Child Protection Month engagements created a platform for open dialogue on HIV and AIDS and sexual and reproductive health, with learners actively participating and sharing their perspectives.

Child Protection Month build-up sessions continued on day two at Kwasa High School in eDumbe, Zululand District. The Department of Social Development (DSD), with its partners, engaged learners and educators to support ongoing awareness efforts.

The sessions form part of a broader programme aimed at strengthening awareness, promoting the protection of children, and equipping communities with knowledge to prevent abuse, exploitation, and neglect. Through dialogue and information sharing, participants are encouraged to take an active role in safeguarding the rights and well-being of children.

In providing an overview of the school, the principal, Mr Thokozani Jackson Xulu, stated that Kwasa High School falls within the eDumbe Circuit under the Paulpietersburg Circuit Management in the Zululand District. The school has an enrolment of 621 learners, supported by 20 educators. It participates in the National School Nutrition Programme and is a Section 21 institution, with no school or boarding fees charged.

Mr Xulu also provided a brief history of the school, explaining that it began operating in January 1989 at Bilanyoni Primary School with only Form I learners. The name “Kwasa,” meaning “the sun is shining,” was later adopted to reflect the community’s high regard for education. In 1990, the school relocated to Isiblangusikazulu Primary School, where it expanded to accommodate additional grade levels.

By 1991, Form III was added, and enrolment grew. In 1994, a surge in learner numbers required additional facilities in Nthuthukweni, supported by local business figures. That year, the school also appointed its first government-employed staff during South Africa’s democratic transition.

In January 1998, the school relocated to its current site at Section B 793 and was officially opened on 9 October 1998 by the then Minister of Education and Culture, Dr V.T. Zulu. Since then, the school has offered Grades 8 to 12 and has been led by several principals, including Ms P. Zwane, Mr M.S. Mazibuko, and the current principal, Mr Xulu.

Mr Xulu noted that while the school maintains a committed team of educators, it continues to face challenges, including limited sports and recreational facilities. Despite this, learners actively participate in soccer, netball, and volleyball. The school’s science laboratory also requires maintenance. In response, the school has prioritised improving performance in subjects such as Mathematics and Physical Sciences through targeted intervention strategies, including a dedicated Grade 12 revision programme.

As part of the Child Protection Month build-up activities, discussions at the school also addressed HIV and AIDS, as well as sexual and reproductive health rights. Learners actively participated, sharing their views and experiences.

One of the learners, Sbongakonke Zwane, emphasised the importance of making informed decisions to prevent HIV and AIDS and teenage pregnancy. She encouraged fellow learners to access services at health facilities, avoid unprotected sexual activity, and remain focused on their studies. She further stressed the importance of reporting unsafe behaviour to trusted adults and cautioned against accepting any form of bribery to remain silent about abuse or misconduct.

The sessions continue to provide a platform for learners and educators to engage on issues affecting children, while reinforcing awareness and shared responsibility in protecting their well-being.