Education

Eight Pupils Suspended After Brutal Bullying Video Sparks National Outrage in South Africa

Helen Okoro 5 hours ago 3 min read

By : Chinasaokwu Helen Okoro

South African education authorities have suspended eight pupils from Milnerton High School in Cape Town after a disturbing video showing a brutal assault on a fellow student went viral, igniting widespread outrage and renewed calls for stronger measures against bullying in schools.

The footage, which has circulated widely on social media since last week, shows several boys viciously attacking another pupil using a hockey stick, hose pipe, and belt. The victim, believed to be one of nine pupils assaulted, is seen attempting to shield himself from the blows while others stand by, some filming the ordeal.

The incident has triggered anger across South Africa, with parents, educators, and child rights advocates condemning the culture of violence and impunity that continues to plague many schools in the country. Authorities say all eight pupils identified in the video have been suspended pending a full disciplinary hearing.

Western Cape Education Department (WCED) spokesperson Bronagh Hammond confirmed the suspensions, describing the footage as “deeply disturbing and completely unacceptable.”

> “The department strongly condemns all forms of violence and bullying in schools,” Hammond said. “An immediate investigation was launched after the video surfaced, and disciplinary steps have been taken against the learners involved. The safety and psychological well-being of all learners remain our top priority.”

She added that trauma counselling has been offered to the victim and other pupils affected by the incident.

Local police have also confirmed that a criminal case has been opened, with investigations ongoing to determine whether charges of assault can be laid against those involved.

The video, believed to have been recorded on school grounds, shows a shocking level of violence that many social media users have described as “torture-like.” The victim reportedly sustained bruises and emotional trauma from the assault, which occurred during school hours.

Parents of other pupils expressed outrage, calling for stricter disciplinary actions, including expulsion and criminal prosecution. Some questioned the school’s supervision and the apparent ease with which students were able to carry out such a violent act.

One parent, speaking anonymously to local media, said, “Our children are supposed to be safe in school, not beaten like criminals. What kind of message are we sending if these boys are allowed back after what they did?”

Bullying and violence in South African schools have been on the rise in recent years, often fueled by social media exposure. Numerous videos showing pupils fighting, humiliating others, or attacking teachers have gone viral, sparking national debates about discipline, parenting, and school safety.

Child rights organisations say the problem is compounded by a lack of consistent enforcement of anti-bullying policies and insufficient psychological support for both victims and perpetrators.

Dr. Miranda Ncube, a child psychologist and anti-bullying advocate, described the Milnerton case as a “symptom of a wider crisis.”

> “We are seeing a normalization of violence among young people,” she said. “Many learners have become desensitized to brutality because they see it online or experience it at home. Schools need to become safe spaces again — with clear rules, swift consequences, and accessible mental health support.”

The South African Human Rights Commission has also expressed concern, urging schools nationwide to adopt stronger anti-bullying frameworks and ensure that all incidents are promptly reported and addressed.

As investigations continue, the Milnerton High School incident has reignited a painful conversation about discipline and accountability within the country’s education system.

While the eight suspended pupils await the outcome of disciplinary proceedings, the victim and his family are said to be receiving counselling and support from the education department.

For many South Africans, however, the disturbing video serves as a grim reminder that behind the statistics and headlines are real children whose lives are being scarred by violence.

> “This cannot be brushed aside as boys being boys,” said Dr. Ncube. “If we fail to act decisively, we risk raising a generation that sees cruelty as strength.”

The case continues to draw national attention — and a collective demand for change — as South Africa grapples with how to make its schools safe for every child.