Advancements in removing pit toilets from schools – still many remain

Section 27, an advocacy group, emphasizes that the presence of pit toilets in over 1,000 schools is unlawful and hazardous for pupils despite progress in eradicating them. This issue gained attention after the tragic death of Michael Komape in a pit toilet in 2014. The Limpopo high court ordered the government to provide a plan to eliminate pit toilets by specific deadlines, categorizing schools based on their sanitation needs.

Section 27 has created a tool, the Michael Komape Sanitation Progress Monitor, to track the Department of Education’s plans for addressing school sanitation. While progress has been seen in replacing pit toilets with legal and safe alternatives, there are still concerns about missed deadlines and the remaining number of pit toilets nationwide.

Amnesty International has condemned the use of illegal pit toilets in South African schools, highlighting the violation of human rights. They continue to push the government to eradicate all pit toilets and ensure dignified sanitation for all learners.

TimesLIVE