Bullying and fighting is a serious issue faced by teachers and parents

Bullying and violence in schools are severe issues that can affect students' mental and physical health for a long time. A concerning tendency is the normalisation of violent altercations, physical assault, and severe bullying. In addition to putting kids in danger, this can have serious emotional and psychological repercussions, such as anxiety, sadness, and even suicide thoughts or acts.

Several factors contribute to the rise in violence and bullying, such as:

1. Social Media and Peer Pressure: Social platforms can sometimes amplify negative behavior, allowing bullying to happen online and in person. Peerprint also plays an important role in encouraging students to take on violent actions or to participate in bullying to fit.

2. Lack of support systems: students who feel isolated at home or not supported or can act aggressively at school. Without the right counseling, mentoring or conflict solution education, students can resort to violence or harmful behavior as a coping mechanism.

3. Exposure to Violence: Exposure to violence at home, in the media, or even in the school environment can desensitize students to harmful behaviors and increase the likelihood that they will repeat them.

4. Mental Health Issues: Many students who bully or use violence may be struggling with mental health issues themselves, such as depression, anxiety, or anger management issues. Unfortunately, these issues often go unrecognized or untreated, leading to more destructive behaviors.

To address these issues, schools and communities can take several important steps:

- Promote Anti-Bullying Programs: Schools can implement programs that raise awareness of bullying, teach empathy, and promote inclusiveness. These programs can allow students to defend themselves against intimidation and support affected people.

-Promoting open mental health discussions can also reduce stigma and help students feel more comfortable to find help.

-Create clear guidelines: Schools must build and apply strong anti-intimidation and anti-violence directives. This includes clear consequences for students who have violent or intimidation behavior, as well as to create safe channels so that students can report incidents. 

- Teach Conflict Resolution and Emotional Regulation: Equipping students with the skills to manage their emotions, resolve conflicts peacefully, and communicate effectively can reduce instances of fighting and bullying.

- Encourage Positive Role Models: Teachers, parents, and older students can act as role models to demonstrate how to handle disagreements calmly and respectfully, and how to offer support to others.

- Strengthen the School Community: A strong sense of community in the school, where students feel valued and included, can help reduce feelings of isolation and improve overall school safety.

By working together, schools, families, and communities can help create a safer, more supportive environment where students can learn and grow without fear of bullying or violence.

City Parks and Zoo requesting families to visit their families graves

Sinking in cemeteries can be caused by soil compaction, erosion, inadequate drainage, decomposition, or subterranean activity. Buried materials break down over time, causing soil to settle and graves to sink. Flooding and erosion from heavy rains can also lead to uneven terrain around graves. 

The decomposition of coffins and bodies can further contribute to sinking. Subsidence may also be caused by mining, water tables, or construction nearby. Cemetery administrators may need to level or replenish graves to maintain the area. 

Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo urges families to visit graves regularly, as incidents of sunken graves have been reported. They require permission from families to refill sunken graves, as sinking occurs when soil settles and water exacerbates the process. 

The organization is working on solutions to prevent sunken graves during summer rains.

Moodley mentioned that more burial options are now available in cities like Johannesburg, with details provided on the website www.jhbcityparksandzoo.com. 

Families can opt for standard first burials, second interments for additional family members, reduction burials for more space, or cremation. It is important for families to take responsibility for enhancing and maintaining graves in cemeteries, following all cemetery by-laws. 

Mr. Azola Manjati, Manager for Cemeteries and Crematoria, highlighted the issue of sinking graves due to heavy rains and urged families to restore the dignity of their loved ones. Residents can contact Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo for assistance with sinking graves by providing relevant details. The sinking of graves typically occurs at a surface level between 10cm to 50cm, prompting the need for families to address the issue promptly.

Residents can contact Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo on 011 712 6600/6617 or email Mr Zolile Mpophoma at zmpophoma@jhbcityparks.com with details of the cemetery, name of the deceased, the section where the grave is located, and grave number.

Issues facing sex workers

Tech Grounds in Lenasia has become a hub for illicit activities following the relocation of sex workers from a closed site near DB Cash Carry. The issue highlights urban decay, economic struggles, ethical dilemmas, and social prejudices. 

The societal problems driving sex work include economic disparities, systemic injustices, and survival needs. Criminalizing or stigmatizing sex work worsens risks and perpetuates underground activities. 

Transactional relationships result from psychological, cultural, and societal factors like loneliness and economic disparities. The transformation of a once-respected public space into a center for illegal operations reveals broader systemic issues such as neglected urban spaces and economic hardships. 

To address these challenges, community-led initiatives, collaboration with authorities, support for sex workers, tackling root causes through economic development and education, public awareness campaigns, and collaboration among residents, authorities, and organizations are needed. 

Residents near Tech Grounds face challenges due to the association with criminal activities, necessitating increased security measures, community engagement, support programs, and advocacy for long-term solutions to create a safe and thriving space.

Johannesburg MMC for Environment and Infrastructure Services, Jack Sekeiwale office, Meets with Phumla Mqashi Leaders Over Illegal Water Connections

The City of Johannesburg's Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Environment and Infrastructure Services, Jack Sekeiwale, recently held a meeting with community leaders from Phumla Mqashi following frustration over Johannesburg Water's decision to disconnect illegal water connections in the area.

The MMC's office reassured the community that Johannesburg Water would continue to provide water through tanker services until the area is officially proclaimed, but also made it clear that all illegal water connections would be disconnected to safeguard the city's water system.

Patrick Nethavhani, the Deputy Director of Communication for the MMC's office, explained that the illegal connections were putting a strain on the water system. He also highlighted that the legal proclamation of land, which is essential for establishing official water and electricity connections, falls under the authority of the Human Settlements Department. Only once the land is legally recognized can these essential services be provided.

Nethavhani urged the community to engage with officials from the Human Settlements Department to understand the steps necessary for obtaining legal recognition of their land. 

I reached out to the Human Settlements Department to clarify the timeline for the legalization of Phumla Mqashi, with the community awaiting more information on when they can expect full legal recognition and access to water and electricity services.

The Home Coming Show: A Night of Unforgettable Performances

The Home Coming Show, held on Saturday, 23 November 2024, at Patidar Hall, was a remarkable event that captured the hearts of Lenasia’s residents. With tickets sold out, the atmosphere was charged with excitement as fans eagerly awaited stellar performances from their favorite stars, including Bushan Dass, Ridwaan Dawood, and Sujay Ramnandh. A standout moment of the night was a mesmerizing performance by the renowned Sitaare Dance Academy, which left the audience in awe.

The evening was warmly hosted by Lenasia’s own Farah Mohamed, who skillfully set the tone for a night full of entertainment. The crowd was also treated to fresh talent, as new voices Atul Sana and Zaine Mohammed Khan took the stage, delivering performances that had the audience captivated and eager for more.

One of the most unforgettable moments came from the legendary Lenasia singer, Soppy Dawood. Known for his remarkable ability to mimic the iconic Mohammed Rafi, Soppy’s powerful and emotive voice took the crowd on a musical journey, earning him a standing ovation.

A touching moment was provided by motor journalist Dash Pillay Bechan, who made a special appearance and performed a heartfelt dance in honor of her father, who is critically ill in hospital.

The music selection for the night was a perfect blend of nostalgic tunes from the 80s and 90s, alongside modern hits, ensuring the crowd was both entertained and energized. The infectious rhythms kept the audience on their feet, dancing and celebrating well into the night. It was a truly unforgettable evening of music, dance, and community spirit.

Growing Concern Over Public Sex Work in Lenasia Extension 6

Residents of Lenasia Extension 6, particularly along Olive Street and at the Tech Grounds, are increasingly concerned about the open nature of sex work in their community. On Saturday, 23 November 2024, a group of local residents gathered to address their growing frustrations with sex workers engaging in sexual acts in public spaces, raising concerns about the safety and well-being of the community, particularly the impact on children, property values, and public health risks.

This issue has been escalating for months, and on 22 November 2024, about 30 residents from across Lenasia convened at the Saaberie Chishty Hall in Extension 6 to discuss possible solutions. The meeting culminated in a joint effort the following day, where residents, along with former Ward 9 Councillor Imraan Moosa and current Ward 9 Councillor Yakoob "Jakes" Karolia, conducted a successful operation to curb the open sex work in the area.

In an effort to understand the underlying causes of the situation, some of the sex workers were approached for comments. Five women shared their stories, explaining that they had resorted to sex work out of financial desperation. Many of them are struggling to support their children, with no financial support from absent fathers. Some women mentioned that they had migrated from countries like Lesotho and Botswana, facing significant barriers to employment due to a lack of documentation such as passports or IDs.

Despite the desperation these women face, residents are concerned about the public nature of the sex work, with some clients paying as little as R40 and others up to R120. Additionally, the women’s physical health conditions raised further concerns, as some appeared visibly unwell.

Adding complexity to the issue is the involvement of local men, some of whom are described as prominent figures in the community. These men are reportedly engaging with sex workers, only to return to their families afterward as though nothing had occurred. This behavior has sparked moral and ethical questions regarding double standards and accountability within the community.

As tensions rise, the community is left grappling with tough questions: How can they protect children and families from being exposed to these activities? What long-term solutions can address not only the public nature of sex work but also the root causes that force women into such desperate circumstances? The situation calls for a comprehensive response that balances community safety with the urgent need for social and economic support to those who feel driven to engage in sex work.

Panda Lulu Creations: A 14-Day Walk for Education

Panda Lulu Creations, founded by Angie Diale, is organizing a monumental 14-day walk from Lenasia to Durban CBD, taking place from December 3 to December 16, 2024. This walk aims to raise funds for underprivileged children’s education in South Africa, addressing the country’s educational inequality, where many children lack access to basic resources that hinder their academic progress.

In a unique and ambitious challenge, Diale has been tasked with organizing this massive event within just one week—from November 25 to November 30, 2024. This tight timeline aims to generate excitement, rally community support, and engage sponsors and partners to take immediate action for the cause.

The campaign, driven by Diale’s passion for children’s education, calls on individuals, businesses, and corporate sponsors to participate by donating, sponsoring, or spreading the word. By joining the walk or offering financial backing, you can help ensure that every child in South Africa has the tools they need to succeed academically.

Get Involved:

• Walk with Angie Diale from Lenasia to Durban
• Donate or sponsor educational resources for children in need
• Spread the word to raise awareness

For more details, or to get involved, contact Panda Lulu Creations at:

• Phone: +27 69 868 6447 / +27 71 530 4346
• Email: pandalulucreations@gmail.com

Together, we can make a lasting impact and help provide educational opportunities to all South African children. Let’s walk toward a brighter future for the next generation.Panda Lulu Creations: A 14-Day Walk for Education**

Panda Lulu Creations, founded by Angie Diale, is organizing a monumental 14-day walk from Lenasia to Durban CBD, taking place from December 3 to December 16, 2024. This walk aims to raise funds for underprivileged children’s education in South Africa, addressing the country’s educational inequality, where many children lack access to basic resources that hinder their academic progress.

In a unique and ambitious challenge, Diale has been tasked with organizing this massive event within just one week—from November 25 to November 30, 2024. This tight timeline aims to generate excitement, rally community support, and engage sponsors and partners to take immediate action for the cause. 

The campaign, driven by Diale’s passion for children’s education, calls on individuals, businesses, and corporate sponsors to participate by donating, sponsoring, or spreading the word. By joining the walk or offering financial backing, you can help ensure that every child in South Africa has the tools they need to succeed academically.

Get Involved:

- Walk with Angie Diale from Lenasia to Durban

- Donate or sponsor educational resources for children in need

- Spread the word to raise awareness

For more details, or to get involved, contact Panda Lulu Creations at:

- Phone: +27 69 868 6447 / +27 71 530 4346

- Email: pandalulucreations@gmail.com

Together, we can make a lasting impact and help provide educational opportunities to all South African children. Let’s walk toward a brighter future for the next generation.