The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) is making an urgent and heartfelt appeal to communities to help protect schools during the Easter holiday.

As schools across the province close today, marking the end of the first academic term, concerns are growing about the safety of school properties left unattended.

MEC David Maynier says that while measures have been put in place to secure schools, additional eyes and ears from the community are welcomed.

“While we have subsidised holiday security at 443 schools, the best defence against burglary and vandalism is a watchful community. Please report anything suspicious in and around school properties to the South African Police Service (SAPS) immediately.”

Maynier further stressed the importance of safeguarding schools, describing it as a valuable asset.

“As schools close for the Easter break, we wish our learners, teachers, and parents a peaceful holiday. Our schools are valuable community assets, and we all have a role to play in protecting them.”

The second term is set to commence on Wednesday the 8th of April.