Equal Education has welcomed the Department of Basic Education's (DBE) Circular S7 of 2026, saying it strengthens the protection of all learners by reaffirming their right to a safe and inclusive learning environment.
The organisation is also urging schools, provincial education departments and school communities to implement the circular as schools begin the third term.
DBE Circular Reinforces Learners' Right To Safety
According to Equal Education, the circular prohibits vigilantism, violence, intimidation and discrimination in and around schools, while reinforcing every learner's constitutional right to basic education.
Equal Education said it supported the Department of Basic Education in developing the circular as part of ongoing efforts to improve school safety and protect learners across South Africa.
The organisation noted that the circular also extends the application of the Gauteng High Court judgment in Kopanang Africa Against Xenophobia and Others v Operation Dudula and Others, which prohibits intimidation, harassment and assault of individuals identified as foreign nationals, including learners and school staff.
Schools Urged To Implement The Circular
Equal Education has called on Provincial Education Departments, School Governing Bodies (SGBs), principals and school communities to ensure the immediate implementation of the DBE circular.
The organisation said the increase in violent vigilantism and xenophobic attacks highlights the importance of keeping schools safe and inclusive for every child.
It stressed that every learner deserves protection regardless of their nationality or documentation status.
No Learner May Be Denied Access To Education
Equal Education said the circular makes it clear that intimidation, discrimination, violence and vigilantism against learners, including foreign national and undocumented learners, are prohibited.
The circular also reminds schools that every child in South Africa has the constitutional right to basic education, regardless of nationality or documentation.
According to the organisation, learners may not be refused admission or denied access to education because of their immigration or documentation status.
Schools Encouraged To Strengthen Safety Measures
The circular requires schools to strengthen their School Safety Plans and work with the South African Police Service (SAPS) where necessary to protect learners.
Schools are also encouraged to provide psychosocial support to learners who have been affected by violence, intimidation or discrimination.
Equal Education Calls On Schools To Protect Every Learner
Equal Education has urged school principals to communicate the contents of the circular to educators, parents and learners, while taking swift action against any incidents of xenophobia, intimidation or violence within school communities.
The organisation said schools should remain places where every child can learn in safety and dignity, regardless of their background.
Equal Education concluded by reaffirming that every learner has the right to attend school and to be protected while receiving an education.
