Behind the neat uniforms and shiny report cards are children quietly drowning in pressure. School should feel like home—too often it feels like a storm…
Writes Mufaro Namusi
We often describe school as a “home away from home,” especially for those in boarding schools.
For many children today, though, school feels far from comforting. Instead, it can feel like a place full of pressure, stress, and endless expectations.
Think about it: projects, assignments, extra lessons, and even school on weekends. Add the push to be the best, to compete with classmates, and to meet the standards set by teachers and parents.
It’s no wonder many young people feel overwhelmed. Sadly, we recently heard about a Grade 7 learner who died by suicide under this pressure.
Stress Is Real
Many people assume stress starts in high school, with more subjects, more teachers, and more rules.
But even in primary school, students already feel the weight of stress and anxiety. Sometimes, the happiest-looking students are the ones silently suffering.
Sleepless Nights
Children should sleep 7–9 hours each night. Yet many students squeeze by on 4–5 hours as they try to finish homework, study for tests, and keep up with assignments.
This lack of rest fuels stress and leads to mental exhaustion.
The Bullying Problem
As if schoolwork stress isn’t enough, bullying remains a serious challenge.
Many students have been deeply hurt by bullying, and in some cases, it has pushed young people into depression or worse. Bullying and stress often go hand in hand, leaving learners feeling hopeless.
What Can Be Done?
School should be more than grades—it should be about growth, friendship, and happiness. Teachers, parents, and students need to talk openly about these challenges.
Together, we can create a school environment where learners feel safe, supported, and encouraged—not pressured or bullied.
A simple check-in, a listening ear, and kinder expectations can make school feel like home again.
