Improving Child Protection and Safety in High Schools through Learner-Led Initiatives and Support
2023-2024
Agisanang Domestic Abuse Prevention and Training (ADAPT)
Child protection and the prevention of sexual violence and bullying in schools.
no website mentioned
This initiative empowered high school students in Alexandra township to lead the fight against bullying and sexual violence. By establishing student-led GEMS (Girls Empowerment Movement) and BEMS (Boys Empowerment Movement) groups, ADAPT provided vital psychosocial support and proactive prevention to foster a safer, more respectful learning environment.
Amount awarded by LIFSA :
R100,000.00
Number of direct beneficiaries :
60
The project operated in three Alexandra high schools – Kwa-Bhekilanga, East Bank, and Alex High – to build the capacity of young people to advocate for safety. Key activities included intensive leadership training for peer leaders, the development and adoption of School Safety Guiding Tools (policy addendums to school codes of conduct), and the implementation of learner-led awareness campaigns. The project also significantly improved access to legal and psychosocial services for learners affected by gender-based violence. 60 core learners (30 boys and 30 girls) were directly trained as peer leaders, while an estimated 1,500 learners across three high schools were reached through broader campaigns and workshops. Established in 1994, ADAPT is a pioneer in gender-based violence prevention in South Africa. This project successfully mobilised a robust network of partners, including the Gauteng Department of Education, the South African Police Services (SAPS), and the Masiphephe Network, to ensure a holistic approach to student safety.