Deputy Minister Letsike Calls for Urgent Action After Shocking Assault on Schoolgirl Sparks National Outrage

Describing the incident as “appalling,” Deputy Minister Letsike condemned the violence, emphasizing that “no child deserves to endure such brutality.”

A disturbing video capturing the violent assault of a schoolgirl by fellow learners has ignited widespread condemnation across South Africa, with Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, leading calls for swift and decisive action.

Viral Video Sparks National Shock

The video, which rapidly gained traction on various social media platforms, shows a schoolgirl subjected to humiliation and physical violence at the hands of boys from her school, both on a school bus and after she had disembarked. The harrowing footage has brought the issues of bullying and gender-based violence (GBV) in South African schools into sharp focus, prompting calls for immediate reforms and renewed efforts to protect vulnerable learners.

Deputy Minister Letsike Condemns the Incident

Describing the incident as “appalling,” Deputy Minister Letsike condemned the violence, emphasizing that “no child deserves to endure such brutality.” She highlighted the urgent need for schools to be secure environments where all learners can thrive without fear of violence or intimidation. Letsike stated, “It is our collective responsibility to ensure that our schools are safe havens for learning and growth.”

Demand for Department of Basic Education Action

In response to the incident, Letsike has called upon the Department of Basic Education (DBE) to undertake a full-scale investigation. She insisted on disciplinary action against the perpetrators and the immediate enforcement of anti-bullying regulations, as mandated by the Code of Conduct for all learners. “There must be consequences for those who violate the rights of others, especially in our educational institutions,” Letsike stressed.

Push for Comprehensive Prevention Programmes

Letsike urged the DBE to implement robust prevention programmes addressing both bullying and GBV in schools. Such initiatives would not only tackle incidents after they occur but also foster a culture of respect and non-violence among learners. She appealed to all stakeholders—including parents, teachers, and community leaders—to work in unison to ensure that schools remain spaces free from harm.

Collective Responsibility: The Role of Adults and the Community

Emphasizing the importance of adult involvement, Letsike called for heightened vigilance from parents, teachers, and caregivers in identifying early warning signs and addressing potential problems before they escalate. “Learners must feel safe at school. Parents and other adults can help learners who suffer at the hands of bullies,” she said, reiterating the shared duty to intervene and support affected children.

Gender-Based Violence in Schools: A Pervasive Challenge

The assault captured in the viral video is a stark reminder of the persistent threat of gender-based violence and bullying in South African schools. Studies and reports have long highlighted that schools, meant to be places of safety and development, can also be environments where GBV is prevalent. Experts note that such violence can have lifelong psychological, social, and educational consequences for victims.

Calls for Stronger Enforcement and Legislative Support

Advocates and government leaders alike are pushing for stronger enforcement of existing laws and codes of conduct, as well as further legislative measures to deter bullying and violence in educational settings. Letsike has emphasized the need for community-wide support and awareness campaigns to change attitudes and behaviors that perpetuate violence.

Next Steps: A National Call to Action

In closing, Deputy Minister Letsike promised ongoing collaboration with the Department of Basic Education and all stakeholders, including parents and educators, to ensure that such incidents are never repeated. “This incident should intensify a call to all stakeholders to take immediate action to protect our children and create safe and respectful school environments. We will work tirelessly for a better, safer future for every learner,” Letsike pledged.

The outcry following this latest incident is a clarion call for society to stand together against violence and to build schools where respect, dignity, and safety are the norm.