Sunday Times

Your front page reporting of children raping each other is probably only the tip of the iceberg. Some of the current activities of learners at schools are not much to be desired. This obviously cannot be attributed as blame to the schools and educators; it’s largely a social problem.

In the name of enjoyment, entertainment and pleasure, our children are growing into an advanced stage of modernization where parents have lost a great deal of control over their children. Parental advice and disciplining of children are probably things of the past. They have a mind of their own and do as they please. While we cannot squarely place the blame on any one particular aspect of life; however, since the introduction of the chat rooms, mxit, violent movies, etc. the situation has exacerbated to alarming proportions. The stabbings, assault, substance abuse of pupils and attacks on teachers is really out of control.

The general behavior and activities of many children is indeed disturbing. In fact a great deal of undesirable activities goes unnoticed which need to be checked and corrected immediately. It is hoped that parents and all caring South Africans find solutions to better the situation and lend their support in this direction.

Yusuf

Avoca