In December 2021, South Africa’s Department of Basic Education introduced a policy aimed at reducing the country’s high rates of teenage pregnancy and sexual exploitation. It requires educators to report cases where older sexual partners impregnate learners under 16 years of age. A new study was conducted of the statutory rape reporting policy for schools. It showed a disconnect between the policy’s intent and implementation. We found that some rural teachers were unaware of the policy, were not sure what they were supposed to do, or faced cultural, social and systemic barriers that left them feeling powerless to act. 

<p>In December 2021, South Africa&rsquo;s Department of Basic Education introduced a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gov.za/sites/default/files/gcis_document/202112/45580gen704.pdf#page=26">policy</a>&nbsp;aimed at reducing the country&rsquo;s <a href="https://dhsprogram.com/pubs/pdf/FR337/FR337.pdf#page=103">high rates</a>&nbsp;of <a href="https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-020-09488-6">teenage pregnancy</a>&nbsp;and sexual exploitation. It requires educators to report cases where older sexual partners impregnate learners under 16 years of age. A new study was conducted of the statutory rape reporting policy for schools. It showed a disconnect between the policy&rsquo;s intent and implementation. We found that some rural teachers were unaware of the policy, were not sure what they were supposed to do, or faced cultural, social and systemic barriers that left them feeling powerless to act.&nbsp;</p>

POWER Talk is a mid-morning talk show programme, hosted by Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi. The show delves deeper into the news of the day along with larger societal themes, inviting listeners to help unpack issues on the day’s current affairs agenda and topics close to their hearts. Ndlozi also interviews the biggest newsmakers and experts in South Africa, helping listeners make sense of their world.

<p>POWER Talk is a mid-morning talk show programme, hosted by Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi. The show delves deeper into the news of the day along with larger societal themes, inviting listeners to help unpack issues on the day&rsquo;s current affairs agenda and topics close to their hearts. Ndlozi also interviews the biggest newsmakers and experts in South Africa, helping listeners make sense of their world.</p>

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