UDM calls for urgent action against school bullying after more than 500 incidents occurred
Statement by Zandile Phiri, Acting Secretary General of the United Democratic Movement
The United Democratic Movement (UDM) is deeply concerned about the alarming number of bullying cases reported in South African schools since the start of the 2025 academic year. A staggering 548 incident have been recorded, with Limpopo leading at 305 cases, followed by North West (78), Eastern Cape (68), and other provinces reporting significant numbers.
The recent tragic deaths of learners, as well as shocking cases of physical and emotional abuse in schools, highlight the urgent need for decisive action. No child should fear going to school and no family should have to mourn a child due to bullying.
The UDM calls on:
1. School authorities to strictly enforce disciplinary measures against bullies, including suspensions, expulsions and criminal charges where necessary.
2. Government to immediately launch a nationwide anti-bullying campaign, involving teachers, parents, learners and law enforcement to educate and prevent further incidents.
3. Schools and school governing bodies to have clear anti-bullying policies that are strictly implemented and monitored. An updated “Addressing Bullying in Schools” manual must be expedited and enforced by mid-2025.
4. Government to ensure that trauma counselling and legal support are available for victims of bullying and their families.
5. School principals, governing bodies and education departments must be held accountable for failing to act on bullying cases.
The UDM further calls on the Department of Basic Education, SAPS and the Department of Social Development to intensify their inter-departmental efforts to prevent school violence. Parents, communities and school staff must work together to ensure that schools are safe learning environments for all children.
Bullying is not just “child’s play”, it has deadly consequences. The UDM demands urgent action before more lives are lost.
