School violence has to be stamped out

Multiple partners must try to craft a solution, writes Mohamed Saeed from Pietermaritzburg.

My heartfelt condolences go out to the family, loved ones, pupils and staff of all schools in South Africa who have experienced acts of criminality.

Teachers, parents and community leaders are concerned over the increased incidents of violence in schools which, in some cases, claim the lives of innocent pupils.

In recent weeks, there were several incidents of stabbings between pupils over petty and resolvable issues and disputes.

Pupils need to be educated on alternative ways of addressing their personal challenges, instead of resorting to violence.

Of equal concern is the fact that instead of diffusing a fight or helping a victim of crime or helping in an accident situation, the necessity to film the occurrence is more important than the demand to intervene.

That tendency, or inclination, is very disturbing.

The primary function of schools is learning, teaching, and knowing to socialise in a constructive and safe manner.

Sadly, these supposedly secured spaces are gradually being eroded as schools appear to be breeding grounds for violence.

We have passed the talking phase and the time has come for multiple interventions by all stakeholders to prevent violence in all its forms, colours and shapes.

Multiple partners, including parents, need to work together to craft a comprehensive solution.