Learners have incredible opportunities for entertainment and self-education in cyberspace, using an array of digital applications and devices. They spend a significant amount of time surfing the Internet and communicating online via social media or gaming platforms. Schools are also using more Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and ICT devices as part of their educational programme support and office-based functions. It is therefore vital that learners, teachers, administrative staff and parents (or caregivers) are forewarned about online dangers, trained to detect/avoid potential threats, and are empowered to better deal with any possible incidents should they occur. A cyber safety toolkit has been created to assist in achieving the goal of establishing a safer cyberspace for all.

This document provides governance, monitoring and incident response guidance to assist South African (SA) schools to better manage cyber safety and awareness requirements. The key objectives of this document are:

• To provide schools with recommendations on improving cyber safety awareness.

• To identify the specific risk, threats, vulnerabilities, and recommended guidance applicable 

• to learners, teachers, administrative staff and parents (or caregivers) in SA.

• To equip users of this document with the understanding of how to better protect themselves and learners under their care.To outline an approach in order to improve cyber risk management for the typical SA school environment and minimise the harm caused by incidents.