The Gauteng Department of Education is exploring the use of advanced technology, including artificial intelligence-powered cameras and biometric access systems, as part of a broader effort to improve safety in schools across the province.
The proposal was outlined by Gauteng Education MEC Lebogang Maile during a presentation on 2 June 2026, where he presented a vision for safer learning environments that would include enhanced surveillance, access control measures and rapid response systems.
The move comes amid growing concern over incidents of violence, misconduct and disciplinary challenges in schools, with education authorities seeking new ways to protect learners, teachers and support staff.
Technology at the centre of new school safety strategy
According to Gauteng Education spokesperson Onwabile Lubhelwana, the department intends to build on existing security measures already implemented in some schools.
While traditional CCTV systems have been introduced at various institutions, officials are now considering more advanced solutions capable of recognising faces and other physical characteristics through artificial intelligence.
Lubhelwana said several private-sector organisations had expressed interest in supporting schools through technology donations and infrastructure upgrades.
“Not everyone is looking for a tender,” he said, noting that some companies have approached the department out of a desire to contribute to improving public education and school safety.
The proposed security enhancements could also include biometric access systems to better control entry and exit points at school facilities.
Education officials believe these measures could help address a range of challenges, including learner-on-learner violence, attacks on teachers and incidents involving weapons on school premises.
According to the department, many of the problems observed in schools reflect broader social challenges facing communities.
Officials argue that exposure to domestic violence, criminal activity and unstable home environments can contribute to behavioural issues that eventually manifest inside classrooms.
AI surveillance already proving effective in security sector
Although the use of AI-powered cameras in schools remains under discussion, similar technologies are already widely used in South Africa’s security industry.
Artificial intelligence has transformed modern surveillance systems by allowing cameras to analyse video feeds in real time, identify suspicious behaviour and generate alerts without constant human monitoring.
One of the most prominent examples is Vumacam, which operates a network of more than 7,000 AI-enabled cameras across Gauteng. The system is used by provincial authorities, law enforcement agencies and private security firms to support crime prevention efforts.
Security specialists argue that AI surveillance can reduce human error and improve response times by automatically identifying unusual activity.
Research conducted by academics from the University of South Africa found that AI-powered monitoring systems can process large amounts of data, detect anomalies and assist security personnel in responding more quickly to potential threats.
Modern systems can recognise faces, vehicle registration numbers and unusual movement patterns. Some platforms can even operate effectively in poor visibility conditions through the use of thermal imaging technology.
Companies such as AVLytics and GhostHome have developed locally focused AI security solutions designed for South African conditions. These systems combine intelligent video analytics with rapid-response capabilities to help prevent crime before it occurs.
While education authorities believe similar technology could strengthen school security, questions regarding privacy, data protection and the practical implementation of AI surveillance in classrooms are likely to remain part of the public debate.
For now, Gauteng’s plans signal a growing willingness to use emerging technology to address some of the province’s most persistent education and safety challenges.
Source: Newzroom Afrika / SABC News