A Cry for Help at Mangwedi Primary School, Mokopane
Mangwedi Primary School, situated in Mokopane under the Waterberg District, is facing a deeply troubling issue that can no longer be ignored. This is a cry for help from concerned parents, community members, and most importantly, from the children whose safety and well-being are at risk.
Not long ago, Thobela FM visited Mangwedi Primary School for a generous shoe donation drive. While the donation was appreciated and brought smiles to many young faces, a critical opportunity was missed. There was no engagement with learners on the issue of bullying—no education on what bullying is, why it is serious, or how it affects children emotionally and physically. For a school already struggling with an ongoing bullying problem, this silence was painful.
For some time now, many learners at Mangwedi Primary School have allegedly been bullied by one child. This behavior is not new, nor is it unknown. Parents have repeatedly raised concerns with the school and have also informed the child’s parents. Instead of improving, the situation has reportedly worsened, leaving learners living in fear within a place that should be safe and nurturing.
A recent incident has shaken the community deeply. The child was allegedly seen hitting another learner with a mango. The victim’s screams and visible terror were described by witnesses as heart-piercing. A passerby who witnessed the incident was so disturbed that they took a picture, hoping that clear evidence would force immediate action. Any reasonable person would expect swift intervention from the school after such an incident.
However, to the community’s shock and disappointment, the same child was reportedly seen again bullying another learner shortly afterward. This has raised serious questions about accountability, learner safety, and the effectiveness of the school’s response to bullying.
Children should never feel unsafe at school. Education cannot thrive in an environment of fear. Bullying leaves deep emotional scars, affects learning, and can have long-term consequences for both victims and perpetrators if not addressed early and properly.
This is a plea to the school management, the Waterberg District education authorities, parents, and community leaders: please act now. Investigate these incidents thoroughly. Protect the victims. Provide proper intervention, counseling, and discipline where necessary. Educate learners about bullying and its consequences. Silence and inaction only allow harm to continue.
Mangwedi Primary School’s children deserve better. They deserve safety, dignity, and a school environment where every child can learn without fear. This is not just a complaint—it is a cry for help.
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