Bullying: what you can do for your child

The Department of Basic Education has released a series of Tweets that focus on child bullying. 

This comes just days after Lufuno Mavhunga (15) from Mbilwi Secondary School in Limpopo took her own life on 12 April following the torment of a bullying incident, showing the perpetrator assaulting her, which subsequently went viral on social media. Mavhunga overdosed on pills shortly after the assault and later died at the Siloma Hospital.

The 14-year-old learner seen in the video assaulting Lufuno has since been charged with assault and is expected to appear in court today for a formal bail application.

The department started with the #StopBullying campaign on Twitter last week, sharing photos on what parents can do if their child is being bullied, signs to look out for and what to do in the case where their child is the bully.

Signs that your child is being bullied

The department says parents should continue engaging with their children and be aware of possible behavioral changes.

What if my child is the bully?

The department also gives tips on what parents can do when their child is the one doing the bullying.

What can you do if you are being bullied?

Dr Makgabo Reginah Mhaule, the Deputy Minister for the Department of Basic Education, said on Twitter that society faces a very big challenge. “We cannot continue to bury learners (or teachers) as a result of bullying. Parents are encouraged to speak to their children about bullying and the effects and grave consequences that can result from it.”

• Learners who fall victim to bullies can call Childline on 0800 055 555 to talk to someone or to report incidents of bullying; or go to their website at www.childlinesa.org.za.