No More Lost Sons
PSA Demands End to Illegal Initiation Schools

NW – The Public Servants Association (PSA) has pledged its support to the North West Provincial Initiation Coordinating Committee (PICC) and the National Initiation Oversight Committee (NIOC) in their fight against illegal initiation schools.

The PSA condemned the reckless and unlawful practices at unregistered schools, which claimed the lives of six young initiates this year, while more than 100 were rescued from abuse, dehydration, and unsafe conditions.

“These tragedies are preventable,” the PSA stressed, calling for strict enforcement of the Customary Initiation Act (Act 2 of 2021), full registration of schools, and accountability for offenders. Parents, traditional leaders, and schools are urged to ensure compliance with legal, medical, and safety requirements.

The PSA noted that awareness and proactive monitoring save lives — citing the June 2025 rescue of 67 boys — but warned that stronger, coordinated action is needed.

“Safety, legality, and respect for culture must guide initiation practices,” the PSA said, applauding the leadership of the PICC and NIOC while urging relentless enforcement and community vigilance.