Question NW880 to the Minister of Basic Education
24 March 2025 - NW880
Gasa, Ms NM to ask the Minister of Basic Education
(1) Noting that bullying in schools is a critical issue that affects the well-being and academic performance of learners and despite anti-bullying campaigns like the #StopTheShare launched by the Western Cape Education Department to educate learners about the consequences of sharing harmful content online, what total number of cases of severe bullying have been reported in the Western Cape schools in the past three years; (2) what disciplinary actions have been taken against the perpetrators involved in the specified incidents?
Reply:
(1)
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) recognises the significant impact that bullying — whether physical, verbal or cyber — has on the psychological well-being and academic success of learners. While the responsibility for managing school safety and handling reported cases of bullying falls under the jurisdiction of Provincial Education Departments (PEDs) and School Governing Bodies, the DBE continues to provide national oversight, guidance and policy direction in this regard.
The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) has implemented various initiatives to combat bullying, including the #StopTheShare campaign, which raises awareness about the dangers of cyberbullying and educates learners on the responsible use of digital platforms.
The question regarding the total number of reported cases of severe bullying over the past three years falls under the executive authority of the Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Education in the Western Cape. The Honourable Member is therefore kindly requested to refer the question to the MEC for Education the Western Cape as per Section 92(3)(b) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 and Rule 134(5)(b) of the National Assembly Rules for the most up-to-date and detailed figures.
(2)
Bullying is addressed within the framework of the South African Schools Act, as amended, and the Regulations for Safety Measures at Public Schools, 2001, which outline procedures for dealing with disciplinary matters in public schools.
In cases of severe bullying, public schools are expected to:
- Conduct formal disciplinary hearings for learners found guilty of bullying. Depending on the severity of the case, sanctions may include suspension or expulsion, subject to approval by the Head of the relevant PED;
- Refer cases of criminal behaviour to the South African Police Service (SAPS), where necessary, particularly in instances involving violence, harassment or cyberbullying of a criminal nature;
- Provide counselling and psychosocial support to both victims and perpetrators through school-based support teams, social workers and the Integrated School Health Programme (ISHP);
- Engage parents and guardians in intervention processes to ensure collaborative solutions that support positive behavioural change; and
- Implement restorative justice measures, where appropriate, to educate and rehabilitate learners rather than solely focusing on punitive measures.
While the DBE provides oversight and policy guidance, the implementation of disciplinary actions in respect of learners in the Western Cape remains the responsibility of the Western Cape Education Department. The Honourable Member is therefore encouraged to request further details from the MEC for Education in the Western Cape regarding specific cases and actions taken in response to severe bullying incidents.
The DBE remains committed to strengthening anti-bullying strategies, ensuring that every child learns in a safe and supportive environment. The DBE will continue working closely with provinces to enhance school safety frameworks and address bullying in all its forms.