Education Minister condemns Bedfordview school assault (video)
A brutal assault on a Bedfordview schoolgirl has spotlighted a troubling rise in school violence. As seven learners face charges, Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube calls for urgent action, stressing that schools mirror broader societal issues and need stronger support systems.
South Africa’s education system is grappling with a surge in school violence, as seven learners face charges after a violent assault on a Bedfordview schoolgirl in Yeoville.
The recent arrest of seven learners in connection with the assault of a schoolgirl at a Yeoville property has raised serious concerns about violence in South African schools.
Speaking on May 21, Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, said the issue is deeply rooted in society and cannot be fixed overnight.
ALSO READ: WATCH: Bedfordview learner’s attack by group goes viral
“This violence is troubling,” said Gwarube.
“We cannot just push a button to rectify it. These behaviours stem from broader societal problems and are mirrored in our schools.”
@bedfordview.edenv Bedfordview High girl assaulted by learners from multiple schools after they lured the girl to a house in Yeoville, Johannesburg before the attack. Gauteng Department of Education has launched an investigation. #Schoolbullying
She stressed that school governing bodies (SGBs) must enforce school codes of conduct, and when crimes occur, there must be swift disciplinary and legal action.
“It is one example of why government cannot tolerate violence in any form.”
Gwarube acknowledged the psychological dimension of the problem, pointing to the need for more psycho-social support.
“We don’t have as many psychologists as we’d like, but every one of our 75 education districts has at least one psychologist available to schools.”
Bullying and assault cases are increasing rapidly.
“We’ve seen hundreds of incidents. Teachers are overwhelmed and, in some cases, fear for their own safety.”
ALSO READ: Watch: Seven suspended after video of attack on Bedfordview schoolgirl goes viral
Gwarube added that the Department of Basic Education is running anti-bullying campaigns and continues to investigate root causes within homes and communities.
“Children are not born bullies. We recognise the trauma some children face at home. But we also have to deal with punitive measures.”
The department is aiming to strengthen psycho-social support in schools, particularly during crises such as a learner’s death or incidents of sexual violence.
Gwarube said, “Our goal is to create safer schools, but we need society’s support to deal with what’s happening beyond the school gates.”
