A viral video has ignited widespread concern over an alleged bullying incident at Sutherland High School in Centurion, prompting an official investigation by the Gauteng Department of Education. The video, recorded by a distressed Pretoria mother, highlights the emotional toll bullying has taken on her Grade 10 daughter, pushing education authorities into immediate action.
Mother’s Viral Plea for Help
In the emotional footage that spread across social media, the mother shared her daughter’s struggles, alleging that she was being bullied. The girl, who is also in Grade 10, reportedly endured severe teasing and ridicule regarding her body shape. According to the mother, the bullying was so intense that her daughter avoided eating lunch and refrained from purchasing food from the school tuck shop out of fear of mockery. Additionally, classmates allegedly isolated her in class, refusing to share textbooks with her, further deepening her sense of exclusion and distress.
Gauteng Department of Education Responds
Following the public outcry, Gauteng Department of Education Spokesperson Steve Mabona confirmed that the mother visited the school to report the incident. However, school officials insisted that an internal investigation had to be conducted before disciplinary action could be taken against the accused Grade 10 boy learner.
A meeting was held on Thursday, bringing together the parents of the victim, school management, and district officials. During this meeting, it was agreed that a disciplinary hearing would be scheduled, subject to the availability of both parents to participate in the process.
Psychosocial and Curriculum Support for the Victim
Recognizing the emotional and psychological impact of bullying, the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has deployed its Psychosocial Support Unit to assist both the victim and other affected learners. Additionally, the department confirmed that curriculum support would be provided to the affected girl to ensure her academic progress is not derailed by the traumatic experience.
Investigation into Educator’s Handling of Complaints
Further scrutiny has been directed at the way the school initially handled the mother’s complaint. The GDE has launched an investigation into the educator’s response to ensure that due process was followed and that no negligence occurred. The department has pledged to monitor the matter closely, ensuring that all necessary support measures are enforced effectively.
MEC Matome Chiloane: Zero Tolerance for Bullying
Gauteng MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane, reiterated the department’s firm stance against such incidents, emphasizing that schools must be safe spaces where learners feel protected and supported at all times.
“Bullying has no place in our schools. We strongly discourage any form of bullying within our learning environments and urge all learners to report such incidents to school management so that necessary action can be taken promptly,” said MEC Chiloane.
Public Calls for Stronger Anti-Bullying Measures
This incident has once again brought the issue in South African schools to the forefront. Parents, educators, and civil society groups are urging stronger anti-bullying policies and enforcement mechanisms to curb the rising cases of school bullying. Many have taken to social media to share their own experiences and demand swift disciplinary action against those found guilty of bullying.
Also Read: Effective Strategies to Combat Bullying and Promote Well-Being in Schools
The incident at Sutherland High School has shed light on the need for a stronger and more proactive approach to tackling school-based harassment. While the Gauteng Department of Education has taken commendable steps to support the victim and investigate the matter, the broader issue of bullying in schools remains a pressing concern. As the disciplinary hearing unfolds, the focus will be on ensuring that justice is served and that all learners can attend school free from fear and intimidation.
