Hundreds of South African schools that are using the cellphone technology in their quest to combat truancy have reported dramatic success rates.<\/p>\n
Education authorities say an estimated 300 000 pupils in 440 schools are monitored by SMS service companies around the country.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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. <\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Parent Diane Britz, whose daughter attends Hill High School, said she felt more involved in her child’s education. <\/p>\n
“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. <\/p>\n
“It’s the best use of a cellphone regarding kids so far,” said Britz.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n