An explosive confrontation erupted at Milnerton High this week when police fired stun grenades at protesting parents. The protests were in response to a viral video showing a Grade 10 learner being violently assaulted. This triggered national outrage and raised questions about safety, accountability, and bullying in South African schools.
Viral Bullying Video Ignites Protests
The protests followed the release of disturbing footage involving a Grade 10 learner, a cancer survivor, being beaten with hockey sticks and belts by senior students. The alleged perpetrators are believed to be part of the school’s first-team rugby squad.
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Parents and community members gathered outside Milnerton High demanding immediate disciplinary action. The crowd grew heated when no senior school officials appeared to address their concerns.
“They protect the star students and their athletes. It’s all about their rugby boys,” said one angry parent.
Police Respond with Stun Grenades
The South African Police Service (SAPS) was deployed to manage the crowd. Officers initially used riot shields to control the growing unrest. When the crowd refused to disperse, police discharged stun grenades to scatter protesters.
The use of riot-control weapons outside a school drew criticism, especially as the protest included concerned parents and learners.
“Schools must be places of dignity, not fear,” stated Wendy Kaizer-Philander, DA spokesperson on social development.
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Bullying in South African Schools: A National Crisis
The incident at Milnerton High is not isolated. More than 3.2 million learners in South Africa experience bullying each year, according to the Knysna Initiative for Learning and Teaching.
Many victims never speak out. Over 67% of bullied learners do not report incidents, believing nothing will change. Experts warn that bullying is linked to trauma, toxic school cultures, and inadequate responses from school leadership.
Milnerton High Protests: A Call for Accountability
Protesters accuse Milnerton High of mishandling the bullying case and shielding popular sports players from consequences. The protests have now grown into a wider call for systemic reform and transparency in school governance.
The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) confirmed that it is investigating the matter. It also acknowledged that over 1,045 abuse-related calls were received by its Safe Schools call centre from April 2024 to March 2025.
Sporting Bodies Condemn Bullying
Even outside the education sector, voices of condemnation are growing. South African Rugby President Mark Alexander released a statement denouncing the Milnerton High incident.
“This behaviour has no place in society and is not tolerated in our sport,” Alexander said.
What Happens Next for Milnerton High?
The immediate future for Milnerton High remains tense. As investigations continue, the school faces pressure from government, parents, and civil society to act decisively. Public trust hinges on transparent disciplinary action and a clear anti-bullying strategy.
Community members are calling for independent oversight, counselling for affected learners, and stricter safety protocols.
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The Milnerton High Protests are more than a reaction to one incident. They reflect broader frustrations about bullying, inequality, and weak institutional accountability. For meaningful change, schools must prioritise learner safety, speak out against violence, and take swift action against perpetrators.
