A Cape Town father has launched a petition calling for changes to South Africa’s homework policies, arguing that excessive workloads are contributing to stress and burnout among schoolchildren. The campaign has sparked public debate about whether current homework expectations are appropriate for learners’ well-being and academic outcomes. Supporters of the petition say that large or frequent homework tasks can leave children overwhelmed, reduce time for rest and family life, and increase the risk of fatigue and burnout. They argue that homework should be more manageable and better aligned with children’s developmental needs. Opponents and critics of the campaign raise questions about how homework should be evaluated and structured, and whether reducing it could affect learning progress. The discussion centers on balancing educational requirements with mental health and ensuring that homework practices support, rather than harm, children’s well-being. The petition reflects growing attention to stress, workload and student health in education policy discussions.