The Dihlabeng Local Municipality Executive Mayor, Cllr Tseki Tseki, led a collaborative effort with representatives from the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Department Social Development, Child Welfare, and the Department of Correctional Services to address the critical issue of bullying at Ntsu Secondary School. The visit was prompted by a disturbing video that surfaced on social media, depicting learners being subjected to bullying by their peers, as well as other reported incidents that had been brought to the attention of the authorities.
During the awareness campaign, Lt Col Lethokoe emphasized the severe consequences of engaging in bullying behavior, warning learners that those under 18 can be arrested and detained in juvenile centers until they turn 18, after which they may face imprisonment. She stressed that a criminal record can have long-lasting effects, compromising future opportunities and making it challenging to secure employment in South Africa.
Cllr Tseki Tseki echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of respect, kindness, and discipline. He reminded learners that respect starts at home and should be extended to teachers and fellow learners. The Mayor urged learners to refrain from bullying in all its forms, highlighting the devastating impact it can have on individuals, including increased risk of depression, poor academic performance, and even suicidal tendencies.
The delegation encouraged learners to focus on their strengths, citing Ntsu Secondary School’s excellence in sports, particularly in the Mayoral League, where they have consistently excelled in netball and soccer. The Mayor and Lt Col Lethokoe also stressed the importance of parental involvement in promoting discipline and responsible behavior, urging parents to play an active role in addressing bullying.
The campaign concluded with a strong message: bullying will not be tolerated, and learners must prioritize kindness, respect, and empathy towards one another. The Dihlabeng Local Municipality and its partners are committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for all learners to thrive.
