WATCH: Addressing bullying in Germiston schools

“Bullying refers to one or more perpetrators who act aggressively towards a victim by verbal or physical means.”

This is how City of Ekurhuleni’s social worker Xolani Mthiyane defined bullying.
Mthiyane shared more on the main causes of bullying and the solutions to apply in Germiston schools.

“Bullying is increasing in local schools, based on what we found in most the schools.”

The social worker said he thinks the main cause of bullying in Germiston schools is as a result of attention-seeking and acknowledgement through shows of aggression.

He further said there is no single formula to solve the problem of bullying.

“All stakeholders have to work together in dealing with the problem.”
Parents, learners, teachers, the police and the community at large need to help stop bullying wherever they witness it.

It is also important for the community to know the difference between conflict and bullying.

According to Mthiyane, conflict is a disagreement or argument in which both sides express their views.
“Bullying is negative behaviour directed by someone exerting power and control over another person.”

He added the continuation of awareness campaigns that are youth-friendly would help.
“Children need to be introduced more to sports, arts and cultural activities.
“More social workers have to be deployed in local schools to deal with this behaviour.”

Contact the newsroom by emailing: Marietta Lombard (Editor) germistoncitynews@caxton.co.za,  or (Journalists) Busi Vilakazi busiv@caxton.co.za