Bullying is a big problem at schools and this week a magistrate in KwaZulu-Natal court made a real statement that they hope will deter this behaviour, especially at schools.
A 16-year-old schoolgirl from the Mathole High School in Mahlabathini was given a community-based sentence of 12 months after she was convicted of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm last month.
The matter related to an assault of a pupil at her Zululand district that went viral in September last year.
KZN director of public prosecutions advocate Elaine Zungu said: “We acknowledge the prevalence of bullying in the school environment. We will give these matters the necessary attention and ensure prosecutions accordingly.”
According to the sentence, the pupil will be placed under the supervision of a probation officer for a year and she will receive therapy to help her manage the issues that may have led to the offence.
Bullying is a particular problem with adolescents and pre-adolescents and can cause lasting psychological and physical damage to other children.
Darul Ihsan Media Desk