The Deputy Minister in the Presidency responsible for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Mmapaseka Steve Letsike condemns in the strongest possible terms the horrific incident of bullying and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) against a young schoolgirl, captured on video and widely circulating on social media.
The video shows the girl being humiliated and physically assaulted by boys from her school in a school bus, with the abuse continuing even after she disembarked. This appalling incident is a stark reminder of the pervasive GBV plaguing our communities and schools. No child deserves to endure such brutality, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that our schools are safe havens for learning and growth.
The Deputy Minister calls on the Department of Basic Education to take swift and decisive action to investigate this incident, take disciplinary measures against the boys who perpetrated this senseless incident, and to immediately enforce anti-bullying laws as part of the Code of Conduct for all learners. The Deputy Minister also calls upon the DBE to implement comprehensive programs to prevent both bullying and acts GBV in schools.
"This incident should intensify a call to all stakeholders to take immediate action to protect our children and create safe and respectful school environments. We will work tirelessly with the Department of Basic Education, all stakeholders including parents and educators. We must all stay vigilant, look for these warning signs, and try to address problems prompt. Learners must feel safe at school; parents and other adults can help learners who suffer at the hands of bullies. And other stakeholders to ensure that our schools are free from violence and GBV." said Deputy Minister Letsike.
Media Enquiries Contact:
Cassius Selala, Head of Communication: Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities
Cell: 060 534 0672
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