Hunt on for bully spreading harmful insults about pupils, teachers

AN INVESTIGATION has begun to identify the person responsible for derogatory messages against pupils and teachers at Kraaifontein High School.

A teacher last week spoke out against cyberbullying after two lists circulated at the school – one naming young girls alongside allegations of sexual encounters they're claimed to have had; and another naming teachers and attaching degrading statements about their appearance.

Education MEC Debbie Schäfer's spokesperson, Kerry Mauchline, said disciplinary action will be taken against those responsible.

“The principal initiated an investigation as soon as he became aware of these messages, which includes assistance from the SAPS and engagement with the SGB, staff and learners. The school is in the process of identifying the person responsible for the messages so that disciplinary procedures can be followed.

“The SGB will meet to discuss the importance of putting a social media policy in place in the second term, and as noted previously, it has been added to school monitoring for the second term.

“The district is also arranging counselling support for all affected learners and staff,” Mauchline said.

There has been a series of cyberbullying cases across the country recently, most notably involving Lufuno Mavhunga who took her own life after an incident of bullying was recorded on video and shared widely on social media.

SA Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) said bullying can lead to longlasting emotional and psychological scars, with far-reaching and severe consequences, including suicide.

Sadag board member Nkini Phasha said: '“Sadly, bullying is not a new phenomenon in our society.

“The harsh reality is that it is a growing culture that is almost ‘normalised', particularly in our schools and places of work. It is a reflection of just how angry, violent and power-hungry we have become as a people.”

Sadag provides free telephonic counselling, support, information and nationwide referrals to support groups, psychologists, psychiatrists, clinics and more.

To speak to a counsellor call 0800 21 22 23 or SMS 31393.