Archive photo
Two learners were stabbed to death within days of each other in separate incidents in Gauteng, sending shockwaves through the province’s education community.
Matome Chiloane, the Gauteng MEC for education, says he is devastated by the tragedy and described it as a “deeply painful loss”.
According to information, a 17-year-old gr. 8-learner from Forest High School in Johannesburg attacked on Friday in a park near the school. Allegedly, the learner was spotted after school hours at Rotunda Park where he was severely assaulted and stabbed with a sharp object.
“The victim sustained serious injuries in the attack and was initially rushed to a local hospital. He was later transferred to another hospital where he succumbed to his injuries,” says Chiloane.
In a second incident that shook the community, a gr. Year 12 learner from Daleview Secondary School in Ennerdale stabbed to death on his way home on Monday. The learner was walking through an open field between his school and a local shop when he was attacked.
According to Chiloane, the circumstances of both incidents are currently being investigated by the police.
“Psychosocial support services have been mobilized immediately. These services will be offered to learners, educators and the respective bereaved families to assist them during this extremely difficult and traumatic period.”
Chiloane expressed his deep sadness at the loss of the two learners and emphasized that violence in any form will not be tolerated.
“This is a painful loss for our education community. We express our sincere condolences to the families, friends and school communities affected by these tragedies.
“Violence against our learners, whether it is inside or outside school premises, is unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” said Chiloane.
He further appealed to the community to stand together and work actively with the police.
“Communities must work with law enforcement agencies to ensure that those responsible are brought to book. We must stand united in protecting our children so that our schools remain safe spaces for teaching and learning.”