ALBERTON-Earlier this year, a case of bullying at an Alberton primary school shocked the community.
Now, on national news, we have recently seen the incident which took place at Krugerlaan School in Vereeniging. What a sad day for our country to witness such violence and humiliation, and those in authority condoning it. This video, taken at Krugerlaan School, screams of youth in trouble. They are witnessing aggression in our society and being desensitised.
Last year, the department of education conducted a colloquium on bullying in order to improve interventions in this regard. MEC Panyaza Lesufi identified learner discipline as one of the priorities of the department. “Each school must have a code of conduct to deal with bullying and other discipline issues. Learners are taught about bullying in Life Orientation,” she explained. The question is, do all schools abide by this code of conduct? Looking at the disturbing video one has to wonder.
At the colloquium, the department agreed on the following interventions:
* The Gauteng Department of Social Development has allocated 25 social workers to assist schools in dealing with behavioural challenges but, according to Lifeline coordinator Maphaladi Phaladi, they have not heard or seen any social workers from the GDE in the Gauteng schools they work in.
* The department has signed a memorandum of understanding with Child Line to provide guidance and counselling to learners in Gauteng on a 24-hour basis. Lynn Cawood, director of Child Line says the number is a 24/7 toll free line.
* They have partnered with faith-based organisations which have created a community-based network of pastoral care to learners in schools. Cawood confirmed that Lesufi visited Krugerlaan School on June 18 and the teacher in the video was suspended. “At least that is a good thing.” says Lynn.
If your child is experiencing any type of bullying, whether it is physical or emotional, or if you are a witness, please come forward. Confidential emails or comments can be sent to belindav@caxton.co.za. Important: Should your child fall victim to an under-aged bully, you as parents can still go to the police station to “lay charges” against the minor. The Child Protection Unit will then be called in to investigate. For counselling and legal assistance, call Alberton Victim Support on 083 923 1967 or contact the 24-hour Child Line number on 08000 55555.
