KEY POINTS
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A 13-year-old pupil from Vulindlela Primary School tragically took her own life after being repeatedly bullied, including accusations of cheating by a classmate.
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The Free State Department of Education has expressed its commitment to addressing bullying and supporting students with mental health resources to prevent such tragedies.
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Mental health experts are calling for more proactive measures in schools to support students and address the root causes of bullying and its impact on young people.
The recent death of a 13-year-old pupil from Vulindlela Primary School in Harrismith has shed light on the devastating effects of bullying on young students.
On Tuesday, a grade 7 learner tragically took her own life, leaving behind a heart-wrenching note that described the torment she had been enduring.
Her mother, after discovering the note, was left to grapple with the unimaginable pain of her child’s loss.
Sowetanlive reports that the pupil’s death comes after a long period of bullying from a classmate who had accused her of cheating during a class test. The bullying escalated over time, leading to repeated physical and emotional abuse.
Free State education department spokesperson, Howard Ndaba, revealed that the pupil had expressed fear of her classmate and had even requested a school transfer due to the harassment.
“The pupil’s request for a transfer was not acted upon, and the bullying continued, which ultimately led to this devastating outcome,” said Ndaba.
A call for action against bullying and improved support systems
MEC for Education Julia Maboya expressed the department’s deep sorrow at the loss, offering condolences to the family and the school community. “We are deeply saddened by this tragic incident. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to the family and all those affected by this loss,” she said.
The Free State education department has emphasized its commitment to combating bullying and ensuring that schools are safe environments for all learners.
The department reiterated its dedication to creating an atmosphere of kindness, empathy, and respect, and it stressed that support systems, including psychosocial assistance, have been extended to both students and educators affected by the incident.
Ndaba also mentioned that the department is working closely with school management to ensure that measures are put in place to prevent future incidents. “We encourage parents, students, and the community to work together with schools in promoting a safe and supportive learning environment,” he added.
The tragic event has prompted wider discussions about mental health issues in schools and the urgent need for better support systems for students who may be facing emotional and psychological challenges.
Experts argue that schools should take a more proactive approach in addressing bullying and mental health, ensuring that students have access to counseling services and a safe space to discuss their problems.
Recent studies have shown that bullying in schools can have severe long-term effects on a student’s mental health, potentially leading to depression, anxiety, and in extreme cases, suicide. Mental health advocates are calling for schools to implement more comprehensive anti-bullying programs, as well as regular mental health check-ins for students.
“We must change the way we approach bullying in schools. It’s not just about punishing the perpetrators but also about providing care and resources for the victims,” said a child psychologist who works with schools in the Free State.
The Free State Department of Education has committed to expanding its programs aimed at improving student well-being and ensuring that students feel safe and supported in their learning environments.
