WCED says online learner bullying has reached new highs

The Western Cape Education Department has called on social media users to refrain from spreading videos of learners attacking or bullying one another online. This comes after various videos of learners allegedly attacking one another both in and out of school were spread on social media.

“Many of the images are deeply disturbing.”

The department says it is engaging with each of the schools that can be identified in the videos and images, all of whom have confirmed that the necessary disciplinary processes are being followed in each case and that counselling support has been provided.

“These videos portray a deep lack of humanity and compassion for fellow learners. In addition, the filming, distribution and sharing of these incidents is also deeply shameful. It is difficult to comprehend what motivates one to actively promote a fellow human being, particularly a child being humiliated or abused?” Head of Department, Brent Walters

Walters added that any learner, parent or caregiver of a learner, who has gone through such abuse needs to know the deep pain and trauma it can cause and the distribution of the victim’s experience on social media further heightens these risks.

The spreading of these videos on social media has however become a more common occurrence, as it has been reported to the department that a Whatsapp channel has been created to post incidents involving learners being abused.

“Firstly, this can cause irreparable harm to both the alleged victims who face further abuse on these platforms. Secondly, the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) sets specific conditions for processing children’s personal information.” added Walters

Walters reminded social media users that the responsible thing to do when seeing or receiving such a harmful post is to stop it from being shared elsewhere, either by deleting the post or to “Stop the Share” completely by reporting harmful content.

“It is time for all of us – whether we are 10, 20, or 50 years old – to #StopTheShare, and report harmful content, in support of the victim, and stop the abuse they continue to suffer.”

The department has created a set of online videos to show learners and the general public, exactly how to #StopTheShare for this type of harmful content. The videos can be viewed at: https://wcedonline.westerncape.gov.za/anti-bullying

Walters says the department has written to the Information Regulator and has lodged a complaint against the WhatsApp channel that is sharing the footage. It will also engage with the South African Police Services (SAPS) on this matter.

“These incidents are a reminder to parents and caregivers that having conversations with their children about bullying, abuse and social media abuse is vital.”

Schools, parents, and/or learners may call the WCED SAFE SCHOOLS Call Centre on 0800 45 46 47 toll-free for assistance in locating immediate support.

In addition, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) offers a 24-HOUR HELPLINE [0800 12 13 14] as well as a SUICIDE EMERGENCY NUMBER [0800 567 567].

“Learners and/or parents can use these numbers if they feel that the child needs immediate assistance (often after school hours).”