SMS service halves truancy
Hundreds of South African schools that are using the cellphone technology in their quest to combat truancy have reported dramatic success rates.
Education authorities say an estimated 300 000 pupils in 440 schools are monitored by SMS service companies around the country.
Parents are informed via SMS of changes in schedules, detentions, minor offences, exam timetables and absentee pupils, ensuring they are more aware of their children’s activities and movements.
Fay du Croq, deputy principal of Hill High School in the southern suburbs of Johannesburg, reported that truancies dropped by 50% after enlisting the SMS alert service last month.
She said the service was initially used to inform parents of events taking place and changes in schedule. Eventually they widened it to inform parents about absentee pupils.
Parent Diane Britz, whose daughter attends Hill High School, said she felt more involved in her child’s education.
“It’s such a good idea. Parents don’t have to worry if their child is truanting, because they know they will receive an SMS about it. I like the fact that I know about everything that goes on in school regarding my child.
“It’s the best use of a cellphone regarding kids so far,” said Britz.
Anna Marie Nel, who manages and sends out SMSs to parents of pupils at Hoërskool Ermelo in Mpumalanga, said truancy used to be a primary concern for the school, but since the start of the school term in July there has been a notable decrease.
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