Bullying incidents rise across Gauteng and Western Cape schools

Reported bullying cases in South Africa’s public schools have increased over the years in both Gauteng and the Western Cape. According to presentations by provincial education departments to the parliament’s portfolio committee on basic education earlier this week, bullying incidents reported in Gauteng in 2025 were 1 079, while the Western Cape reported 149. The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) reported a 28% year-on-year increase in bullying incidents from 116 cases in 2024 to 149 in 2025.

Metro South recorded the highest totals, increasing from 39 to 44 cases, while Metro Central rose from 33 to 39, and Metro North jumped from 13 to 24. The department has implemented the policy “Abuse No More”, which “provides guidelines to schools on dealing with any form of abuse, including bullying.” Schools are required to act in terms of the Codes of Conduct under the South African Schools Act. Strict timelines for handling reports are in place.

“Schools and district offices are expected to acknowledge receipt of a bullying report within 24 to 48 hours,” the department said. Investigations should begin immediately and “should generally be completed within 10 school days,” with interventions implemented within 20 school days where possible. Students can report bullying through the Safe Schools Call Centre on 0800 45 46 47, school principals, or school-based support teams, with confidentiality maintained as far as possible.

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The department also provides training for teachers and pupils on bullying prevention. “The Grade 4 curriculum covers different types of bullying and how to protect yourself from bullying,” the presentation said.

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