Head of social work at the University of the Free State (UFS), Dr Mpumelelo Ncube, said bullying is one of the reasons why schools must have social workers to educate learners and teachers on how to deal with transgender learners.

“Beyond that, issues relating to gender, diversity, inclusion and belonging must be embedded in the curriculum to enable learners to understand these issues. Although transgender is an old phenomenon in some parts of the world, it is fairly new in South Africa’s schooling system, more so in the black communities, and might be stereotyped.”

He said that learners who fall within the category find it difficult to deal with it if the school environment does not permit it. “Bullying of transgender learners are quite common, which increases mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideations.”

He said one of the challenges facing transgender learners in school is that most quantile 1 schools (schools catering for the poorest 20% of learners) do not have social workers or psychologists on their premises, depriving learners of quality psychosocial interventions in real-time.

“The social workers placed in schools provide social work services as secondary services. As such, they do not get enough time to render services. Schools keep learners in class as long as possible, in line with the policies governing teaching and learning, meaning social workers do not have enough contact time and resources for learners who need help. Social work services after school are not an option as learners have a scheduled time during which they are collected by their transport services.”

Also read: Gender-inclusive symposium to be held at UFS

The Department of Social Work at the UFS recently hosted a symposium on gender diversity, inclusion, and belonging with Jessica Lynn, world-renowned transgender advocate, as one of the speakers.

Lynn shared her experience as a man, losing a fiancée in a car accident, meeting another woman, getting married, having three sons and getting divorced.

“I experienced a lot of bad things when I transitioned, and I wanted to help educate others so that they are not trapped the same way I was. There is a very small percentage of people worldwide who identify as transgender. It is not like there are no transgender people here (in South Africa), it is just that they are scared of coming out.”

Lynn was joined by a mother and daughter, Nina and Dani Costella, among others who shared their personal journey on how transitioning has been for them.

Nina stated that her love for her children rises above all and that is why she supported Dani’s transition.

Dani was at a young age when a decision was made to put her on hormone blockers after her family noticed how much she enjoyed dressing up as a girl.

“Putting her on hormone blockers was to give us time to make sure we will be taking the best decision for her. The hormone blockers also made her transitioning easier,” explained Nina.

Dani is now a 22-year-old model and said she is grateful for her family for the decision they have taken. The two offered support, empathy and love to families who are going through similar transitioning experiences they have gone through.

Following this symposium the UFS is looking forward to hosting a two day conference where these dialogues can continue.

Ncube concluded that the Department of Education is committed to protecting the rights of the child and, as such, reinforces the school policy against anti-discrimination.

“This policy highlights that schools should take the lead in creating safe and inclusive environments for all children to access their right to education. The organisation Gender Dynamix has produced a gender identity and gender expression manual for SA schools in which they offer ways in which schools can support gender non-conforming and transgender children.”

OFM News