The week aims to address unwanted aggressive behaviour that creates a power imbalance among children, whether physical, verbal, or relational.
This form of behaviour, often termed bullying, can leave lasting scars on both victims and perpetrators, making it a pressing issue for educators, parents, and policymakers alike.
Polly Sekwala, iLizwe Lam Project Manager at Digify Africa, highlighted during an interview on Channel Africa that bullying encompasses any action causing harm, discomfort, or distress to others.
This behaviour is increasingly prevalent online, where social media platforms provide a veil for bullies. Sekwala noted, “Bullying can be categorised as any form of harm done to another, whether physical or verbal. Even indirect actions, particularly on social media, can constitute bullying.”
Sekwala believes that many bullies are aware of their actions, yet underlying issues, such as a lack of empathy or unresolved trauma, often drive their behaviour.
“If you can’t be kind to the next person, something is likely amiss,” Sekwala explained.
This insight serves as a crucial point in Digify Africa's educational programmes, which encourage young people to consider the impact of their actions and to avoid behaviour they would not want directed at themselves.
Identifying both victims and perpetrators of bullying is essential to effective intervention. According to Sekwala, mental health concerns are a significant sign of bullying. Victims may withdraw, avoiding social interactions and group activities. Conversely, perpetrators often display aggression and an exaggerated sense of authority.
Sekwala pointed out that victims may become reclusive, and unwilling to engage in social or classroom activities, while bullies tend to exhibit dominating behaviour, especially within group dynamics.
Cyberbullying presents unique challenges, as many young people lack an understanding of its boundaries and implications.
Digify Africa’s programme aims to educate students on recognising and managing cyberbullying, with Sekwala revealing that prior to training, around half of participants lacked a clear understanding of the term.
However, once students were introduced to examples and case studies, they reported a better grasp of what constitutes cyberbullying.
“Some may not realise that by sharing harmful content online, they are perpetuating bullying. Many students and even adults are shocked when they learn the impact of passing on mean-spirited content,” Sekwala said, highlighting the need for broader public awareness.
Sekwala believes that more efforts are needed beyond annual events like Anti-Bullying Week. Bullying remains a major issue in SA schools, requiring collective efforts from organisations, communities, and individuals.
Digify Africa is working to build a coalition of like-minded groups to tackle bullying collaboratively, sharing resources and strategies to create a safer environment for young people.
As part of Anti-Bullying Week, Digify Africa will host its second annual Anti-Bullying Edutainment Event this Saturday at the Save Moray Save Hall.
The event will feature workshops, educational activities, and interactive entertainment designed to promote understanding and resilience. Open to students, parents, and educators, the event serves as a safe space to learn about the impacts of bullying and how to counter it.
Sekwala extended an invitation to those in the area, promising a day filled with “edutainment,” where learning is paired with engaging activities.
--ChannelAfrica--
