​The Gauteng Department of Social Development in the Johannesburg Region concluded a six-week Therapeutic Group Program aimed at teaching learners with behavioural issues, such as bullying, skills to improve their behavior.
The program, hosted at Moruta-Thuto Primary School in Meadowlands, Soweto, focused on topics such as the need for belonging, communication and assertiveness, accountability, and emotional regulation. Learners also created vision boards to help them project and plan for their future.

An emotional Ntsoaki Moloisane, one of the parents who attended the event, expressed her gratitude. “We are grateful for the efforts of the Social Workers who worked tirelessly to create positive attitudes in our children. I encourage other parents to support this program, which is aimed at creating a better future for our children.”

Speaking about her niece, Themba Makhubu (not the child’s real name), Moloisane noted significant improvements. “Themba's behavior and academic performance have improved since he lost his mother in 2020. Previously, we frequently received complaints from the school, and he would isolate himself, hoping his parents would reappear one day.”

Grade 5 teacher Tsholofelo Diale also praised the Social Workers. “As teachers, we sometimes get frustrated by children’s conduct, but the Department of Social Development has brought light to us. The children are now showing interest in their schoolwork.”

The program is tailored to the specific needs of each school, with more serious cases being referred for psychological support and interventions. The initiative targets 12 schools per financial year in the Johannesburg West District.