Girls experience gender and sexual violence in schools around the world, and South Africa is no exception. Research has shown how learners, and girls in particular, are vulnerable to violence.
Despite the country’s political response to violence against women and girls, school-going girls struggle with male violence in and out of school.
Learners who are victimised at school often show poor academic performance, regular school absenteeism, anxiety and depression, drug and alcohol use, psychological trauma, and dropping out of school.
We conducted a study to learn more about South African teenage girls’ experiences at school. Violence emerged as a key aspect of their school life.
Guest on the line: Deevia Bhana -Professor Gender and Childhood Sexuality, University of KwaZulu-Natal