Safer SA Foundation Joined in Mission to Tackle School Bullying

Photo Credit: Mikhail Nilov via Pexels

In a proactive approach to address bullying concerns in Olievenhoutbosch schools, the Safer South Africa Foundation and UNISA have teamed up to help create a safer, more supportive atmosphere for all children.

Olievenhoutbosch, South Africa (14 October 2025) – It may not be an uplifting topic, but the reality is that many children in our country are affected by bullying in schools and their communities – it’s a disheartening fact that two organisations are working hard to tackle and curb.

After hearing about troubling incidents of bullying at Walter Sisulu Primary School and Philena Primary School, the Safer South Africa Foundation (SSAF) has teamed up with the University of South Africa (UNISA) to implement their Communities and Justice Programme (CJP) to address these urgent concerns.

“It was alarming to hear about learners under 10 years old engaging in serious cases of bullying,” says Walte Mashiya, SSAF Director.

“This worrisome matter of bullying challenges at the two Olievenhoutbosch primary schools was brought to our attention by UNISA’s Dr Mmapeu Manyaka,” Mashiya adds.

Understanding the long-lasting impact that bullying can have on both learners and the wider community, SSAF organised a multi-stakeholder intervention. This initiative brought together officials from UNISA, the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Department of Correctional Services, and the District Office of the Department of Basic Education.

Tackling Bullying Through Unpacking the Law

Through the CJP sessions, pupils learned about the criminal justice system, their rights and responsibilities, and the essential values of respect and non-violence in school environments.

These engagements also allowed learners to interact directly with law enforcement and justice officials, helping to demystify the justice process and encourage positive behaviour.

“We engaged key stakeholders such as the SSAF from a village that supports addressing challenges at the two participating schools. The CJP sessions went a long way to create awareness at the Olievenhoutbosch schools,” Dr Manyaka said.

Commenting on the collaboration with UNISA, retired General Riah Phiyega, CEO of SSAF, emphasised the importance of early intervention.

“Bullying is often the seed from which more serious criminal behaviour can grow. By addressing it early through the Communities and Justice Programme, we shape responsible citizens for tomorrow. Our work in Olievenhoutbosch shows the power of collaboration between schools, communities, and justice stakeholders.”

Ensuring Continued Intervention

SSAF’s goal is to build a sustained partnership with Walter Sisulu and Philena Primary Schools to address ongoing challenges and ensure continued intervention with all stakeholders involved. As part of this commitment, SSAF also hosted a successful CJP at Philena Primary School.

The schools and greater community participated in a Walk Against Crime, with 1,400 participants at Walter Sisulu Primary and 2,200 at Philena Primary – demonstrating strong community support for safer learning environments.

The CJP in Olievenhoutbosch forms part of SSAF’s broader mission to bridge the gap between communities and the criminal justice system, ensuring that young people understand how justice works and how they can be part of the solution.