VUT champions workshop addressing workplace bullying

On 25 November 2024, the Social Justice and Transformation department at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) hosted a pivotal workshop focused on workplace bullying in Higher Education. This event sought to tackle the pervasive issue of bullying within academic institutions, a recognised challenge that affects both staff and students.

The workshop addressed a wide range of topics, including the personal impact of workplace bullying, handling accusations of bullying, and understanding the mental health continuum model.

Ms Brightness Mangothi, a prominent advocate against workplace bullying and Director at Higher Education Resource Services South Africa (HER-SA), led the discussions. She provided profound insights into the complexities of workplace bullying, highlighting its various forms: vertical (involving hierarchical relationships), horizontal (between peers), and cross-level (between students and staff). Mangothi emphasised that bullies could be supervisors, colleagues, or even students, often leaving victims feeling powerless in the face of systemic mistreatment.

Mangothi’s presentation offered practical strategies to combat workplace bullying. She emphasised the importance of fostering a psychologically safe environment where open communication and mutual respect are prioritised. Her recommendations included maintaining detailed records of incidents, seeking support from trusted colleagues or friends, and escalating issues to higher authorities where necessary.

The event concluded with a lively question-and-answer session, followed by a vote of thanks from Mr Teboho Bojabotseha, a Communications Lecturer at VUT. Expressing gratitude to Mangothi and the participants, Bojabotseha remarked, “This workshop was an eye-opener, making us all wiser.” He also voiced hopes for similar events to be organised in the future.

The workshop underscored VUT’s commitment to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and supportive workplace environment for all.