Basic Education introduces app to address pit toilets in schools

The Department of Basic Education launched the Safe Schools App on Monday, aiming to fast-track the removal of pit toilets in schools throughout South Africa. Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube introduced the app during a launch event in Tshwane, highlighting its potential to improve accountability and ensure a safer learning environment for children.

Safe Schools App enables real-time tracking of progress in eliminating pit toilets

The Safe Schools App enables real-time tracking of progress in eliminating pit toilets, a long-standing issue in many schools. Gwarube emphasised that the app will streamline efforts by involving government officials, implementing agents, school administrators, and communities.

“We are all remaining focused on achieving the goal of eradicating pit toilets in South Africa once and for all,” Gwarube said.

The minister noted that the app’s data-driven approach would help the department identify areas where progress lags.

“We will always have access to real-time data so that we know where we are going and we know where we are falling behind,” she added.

Focus on dignity and equity

According to the Education Facility Management System released in July 2024, 1770, pit toilets remain in use nationwide. The Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal account for the majority of these, with 405 and 170 schools respectively. In contrast, other provinces, such as Mpumalanga and Limpopo, have made significant strides, with only 40 and 37 schools still using pit toilets. The remaining provinces have completely eliminated this unsafe practice.

This data emerged in response to a parliamentary question posed by Build One South Africa (BOSA) leader Mmusi Maimane. Gwarube acknowledged the disparities and reiterated the department’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to safe sanitation facilities.