Violence among learners is escalating at an alarming rate, with recent incidents across Mpumalanga raising serious concerns about safety in schools. In a media statement issued today (January 23), Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Jackie Macie, condemned school-related violence in the strongest possible terms, warning that learning environments are increasingly being overtaken by aggression, bullying, and criminal behaviour.

“Violence has no place in our schools.”

Macie said schools should be safe spaces for learning, not places of fear, “We condemn violence in the strongest possible terms, both in and outside schools. Learners must refrain from any delinquency, including being part of gangs. No bullying should be allowed in our schools.”

The MEC urged educators to report criminal and dangerous behaviour immediately so that those responsible are removed before incidents escalate further.

Barberton school fight caught on video

The MEC’s warning follows a violent fight involving learners from Kamhola High School in Emjindini near Barberton, which was captured on video and widely shared on social media. The footage shows extremely unsafe and aggressive behaviour among learners, sparking public concern and renewed questions about supervision, discipline, and learner safety in schools.

While the incident occurred outside the Middelburg area, it reflects a growing provincial trend that has left many parents deeply unsettled.

Mhluzi stabbing brings crisis closer to home

A far more serious incident unfolded in Mhluzi, near Middelburg, this week. According to the Department of Community Safety, a fight allegedly broke out between learners at a local school, during which a 20-year-old Grade 10 learner allegedly stabbed an 18-year-old Grade 11 learner. The suspect has been arrested, and the matter is under police investigation.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the Middelburg and Mhluzi community, reinforcing fears that violence among learners is no longer isolated – but becoming increasingly normalised. The MEC stressed that responsibility for discipline cannot rest solely with teachers, but on parents and guardians as well. She extended condolences to the affected learner’s family, the school, and the wider community.

As violent incidents involving learners continue to be exposed across Mpumalanga, communities are left asking difficult questions about the future of schooling.

Are schools still places of learning, or are they breeding grounds for violence?

WATCH HERE: https://www.tiktok.com/@middelburgobserver/video/7598494866271653137?lang=en