THE South African Democratic Teachers' Union (Sadtu) is deeply disturbed by a recently reported bullying incident.
This involves pupils at Thuto Lesedi Secondary School in Vosloorus, Ekurhuleni.
Two weeks ago, older pupils allegedly assaulted a grade 8 pupil, Thapelo Mvuleni, after he refused to hand over a bag of sweets he was selling at school.
Thapelo sustained facial injuries and had to undergo surgery.
Sadtu is further alarmed by reports indicating the existence of tribal-based gang activity in the school.
This incident sparked widespread protests, with pupils from surrounding schools converging at Thuto Lesedi demanding justice and the school principal's removal.
Sadtu spokeswoman Nomusa Cembi said they are further alarmed by reports indicating the existence of tribal-based gang activity at the school.
"These incidents highlight the growing levels of violence in our schools, despite the existence of codes of conduct which should guide appropriate behaviour and discipline among pupils.
"Sadtu is concerned that such measures are failing to protect vulnerable pupils and create a culture of respect and safety. More must be done to instil values of empathy, caring, and tolerance among pupils.
"However, schools cannot fight this scourge alone. We reiterate the need for active involvement of parents, community members, teachers, pupils, and government departments in creating a safe and nurturing schooling environment," she said.
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The Congress of South African Students Regional spokesman in Ekurhuleni, Katlego Tsotetsi, said they want cops to arrest all the pupils who allegedly assaulted Thapelo.
"We cannot sit and fold our arms when the other perpetrators are still roaming the streets. We want all the kids who allegedly attacked Thapelo to be arrested," said Tsotetsi.
He said there have been cases of bullying at Thuto Lesedi but were swept under the carpet.
"Pupils should go to school to learn and not to be bullied by others. The Department of Education should investigate these allegations before someone is killed at that school," he said.
A parent, who didn't want to be named, said the school principal has failed to address issues that happened at the school.
"Our kids have been complaining about bullying inside the school premises, but the school management has turned a blind eye to it. They don't care because their kids are not attending this school.
"We don't have a principal at this school because he does not care about the safety of our kids," she said.
Gauteng Department of Education spokesman Steve Mabona said pupils and parents should come forward and report such allegations.
"We need to prove it so that we can investigate these allegations," he said.
Meanwhile, Thapelo, who was allegedly assaulted inside the school on 23 July, has been discharged from the hospital after he underwent surgery.
His family stated that he's recovering at home.
