Parliament, Tuesday, 21 October 2025 – The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education, Ms Joy Maimela, has expressed “utter horror and deep concern” over a video circulating on social media showing the alleged bullying and assault of a Grade 10 learner from Milnerton High School in Cape Town.
The footage, which has sparked national outrage, depicts the learner being physically and verbally attacked by a group of boys while others stand by – some even cheering on the perpetrators. The incident reportedly occurred on 16 October 2025, shortly after classes ended, and involved learners allegedly including members of the school’s first-team rugby squad.
Ms Maimela said the committee “condemns this kind of behaviour in the strongest possible terms.” She stressed that what occurred “is not merely bullying but borders on assault – a criminal offence that demands urgent and decisive action from all relevant authorities.”
The Chairperson called on the Western Cape Education Department to urgently intervene and report back to the committee. She further reminded schools that the Department of Basic Education requires all public schools to implement and enforce comprehensive anti-bullying policies.
“Schools must be safe spaces for learning and growth, not fear and humiliation. We expect the department to ensure accountability, support for the victim and the enforcement of clear disciplinary action,” Ms Maimela emphasised.
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON BASIC EDUCATION, MS JOY MAIMELA
For media enquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact the committee’s Media Officer:
Name: Rajaa Azzakani (Ms)
Cell: 081 703 9542
E-mail: razzakani@parliament.gov.za
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