Hon Speaker, it is with great concern that the IFP has learned about the recent stabbing of a learner at a school in Manenberg, Western Cape. This incident highlights the shortcomings in the attempts by the department of education of the Western Cape to curb violence at schools. Of special concern is whether the school's safety volunteers, better known as Bambanani, are effective on their own.
It is doubtful whether Bambanani volunteers are adequately trained for these violent crimes taking place in our schools. The IFP therefore calls on the Western Cape's department of education to seek further means of addressing the dangerous situation in our schools.
In addition to regular training, efforts by Bambanani volunteers should be complemented by co-operation with local law enforcement agencies, with a zero tolerance approach to violence in schools. I thank you. [Applause.]