The Ministry of Education has expressed deep concern over reports of bullying, intimidation and theft in secondary boarding schools, directing all schools to establish fully operational Student Councils by September 30, 2026.
Responding to a Circulating Incident
The Ministry said it has taken note of a video circulating on social media showing an assault involving learners at a school earlier this year, which it said is being handled by school authorities. Permanent Secretary for Educational Services Dr Kelvin Mambwe said such behaviour, whether physical, verbal, psychological, sexual, social or conducted through digital platforms, will not be tolerated, and that theft of learners’ belongings or school property must be addressed firmly.
The Ministry appealed to members of the public to stop sharing the video, citing the need to protect the dignity and privacy of the children involved, and noted that circulating such footage without consent could constitute cyber harassment under the Cyber Crimes Act No. 4 of 2025. It urged that cases of abuse be reported directly to school authorities instead.
Legal Protections and a New Directive
Citing the Children’s Code Act No. 12 of 2022, the Ministry reiterated that children have a right to protection from physical, mental and emotional abuse, and that education-sector duty bearers are required to protect children from abuse and violence in all settings. Learners who experience or witness bullying or theft were encouraged to report incidents to a trusted teacher, boarding supervisor, administrator or parent, with an assurance that they are protected by law from retaliation.
Dr Mambwe directed that every secondary school must ensure Student Councils are established and fully operational by September 30, 2026, describing them as a channel for learners to raise welfare concerns. He called on school administrators, teachers, parents and learners to work together on stronger supervision in boarding facilities, confidential reporting channels, and prompt investigation of reported cases.
Sources: Ministry of Education statement, issued by Dr Kelvin Mambwe, Permanent Secretary-Educational Services, June 15, 2026
