The ongoing bullying epidemic in Durban schools has reached a breaking point, with disturbing incidents leading to severe consequences for students. Despite multiple cases of violence, self-harm, and even life-threatening injuries, the Department of Education and school governing bodies have failed to take decisive action. One of the most recent tragic incidents involves 17-year-old Joshua Peterson, who remains in critical condition after a stabbing at West Ridge High School, a shocking reminder of the urgent need for intervention.
Joshua’s stabbing is just one example of the extreme consequences of unchecked bullying. The 17-year-old remains in a fight for his life, and his family’s hopes of seeing him recover and continue with his ambitions have been shattered. Despite the gravity of the situation, the Peterson family has yet to receive any meaningful support from the Department of Education, with no counselling or assistance offered to help them cope during this difficult time.
Meanwhile, reports from Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) reveal a worrying rise in bullying incidents across several schools in the eThekwini Region. In the past few weeks, there have been several suicide attempts linked to bullying, with victims subjected to both physical and psychological abuse. One student, mocked online for an exaggerated hygiene issue, was bullied until she refused to return to school. Another victim, who had endured repeated physical assaults by female bullies, was hospitalised after attempting suicide. A third student, suffering from anxiety and intimidation, passed out after refusing to eat, revealing the extent of the trauma caused by bullying.
There were also reports of a recent stabbing at Centenary School, where an Indian learner was stabbed by a black learner. In this incident the school took action and expelled the perpetrator, however, in many cases, the lack of action from school authorities and the Department of Education is leaving students vulnerable, with many fearing for their safety. At Centenary School, where a racial street fight broke out over bullying, the situation remains unresolved, with the Department of Education’s promise of a meeting with parents still unfulfilled after 21 days.
Educational activist Sumaya Khan has called for immediate action, saying, “We need to uplift our youth and guide them to promote harmony and unity in school. It all starts with them as the future leaders.” Her words highlight the critical role that both schools and the education system play in shaping a safer, more supportive environment for students.
As the bullying crisis worsens, it is clear that urgent intervention is required to prevent further harm. The failure of the Department of Education and school governing bodies to act decisively is leaving students vulnerable and questioning whether their safety truly matters.
The Department of Education was contacted for comments on the recent incidents and resolutions to the previous Centenary Secondary matter; however, none was received at the time of going to print.
