14 Dec 2021

Defilement, rape and assault incidents are reported to be  rampant in Shakawe.

Speaking during a gender-based violence (GBV) empowerment workshop for learners at Shakawe Senior Secondary School recently,  Superintendent Keitshokile Kebodiretswe said this year 24 cases of assault involving pupils had been registered.

Last year, 36 such cases were reported, said the Shakawe police station commander.

He appealed to the public to desist from withdrawing assault cases in order to minimise GBV.

The school’s guidance and counselling teacher, Ms Annah Tema revealed that the institution also faced a challenge of high teenage pregnancy.

She said the school recorded 18 cases this year compared to 37 in 2020.

Ms Tema attributed last years’ high numbers to the COVID-19 outbreak where learners spent more time at home making them sitting ducks for sex predators. Ends