Department of Basic Education
By Natalie Naidoo
Pretoria, South Africa – The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has achieved a significant milestone, successfully eradicating over 93% of identified pit toilets in public schools nationwide through the Sanitation Appropriate for Education (SAFE) initiative. 
Background
Launched in August 2018, the SAFE initiative aimed to address the pressing issue of unsafe sanitation facilities in South African schools. Initially, 3,898 schools were reported by Provincial Education Departments (PEDs) as reliant on basic pit toilets. Following assessments and rationalisation, the current scope of work targeted 2,753 schools. 
Recent Developments
On 11 March 2025, Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube informed Parliament of the progress made, highlighting the collaborative efforts of national and provincial education departments, the private sector, and development partners in fast-tracking the delivery of safer toilets. 
Challenges and Ongoing Efforts
Despite facing severe fiscal constraints, infrastructure backlogs, and rising construction costs, the DBE remains committed to meeting the deadline set by President Cyril Ramaphosa to eradicate unsafe sanitation in schools by 31 March 2025. Minister Gwarube plans to conduct site visits in the Eastern Cape and Limpopo provinces—regions most affected by inadequate sanitation infrastructure—to monitor the final phase of implementation and engage directly with communities and school leadership.
Impact
The eradication of pit toilets is a critical step toward ensuring that all learners have access to safe and dignified sanitation facilities, thereby promoting a healthier and more conducive learning environment. The DBE will continue to provide regular updates as the 31 March 2025 deadline approaches, reaffirming its commitment to transparency and accountability in delivering on this essential mandate.
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