By Mzukona Mantshontsho
Bullying in schools is a problem that is not receiving the attention it deserves. Schools are a microcosm for society.
Power imbalances of this kind flourish in societal systems that favour the strong over the less popular and the advantaged over the disadvantaged.
Bullying in schools continues to happen because of this, where the bullies have a field day over the more introverted, less high-profile learners that are guilty of nothing but being their unassuming selves.
Teachers have a challenging time diagnosing the underlying issues behind bullying in schools because the perpetrators are often popular and master manipulators. Victims on the other hand, are normally passive and insecure with few friends or supporters.
Learners, teachers, parents and the community at large should stand up and fight against bullying so that we have safer schools and learners are able to learn in a conducive environment. I heard of a campaign called ‘Adopt a Police’, which involved police patrolling around the designated school and making sure schooling happens smoothly.
Unfortunately, bullying continues after school years- in politics, neighbourhood gangs, domestic violence in homes and in the workplace. Some of it is crude and blatant and in other cases it is covert and sophisticated. Unfortunately, societal and organizational failure to protect victims against tormentors has often led to dire and regrettable consequences.
Usually, reality is such that structures and processes that are put in place to deal with such occurrences are either dysfunctional or manipulated by those entrusted with implementation.
The Gauteng Department of Education has made its plea to principals, educators and parents to take reports of bullying seriously. “I would want to make an appeal to all principals, educators and parents in the province: if you are aware that bullying is taking place at a school, or have a complaint from your children, please take these instances seriously. The use of cellphones and internet technology in bullying, known as cyber-bullying, is new, schools should be aware of these,” warns Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane.
Learners should not be scared to report any form of bullying at school.
