by Siviwe Zibi
It’s been a tough start for the department of education in Gauteng. 15 learners died since 2020 academic year resumed. The Gauteng Department of Education has yet lost another learner. This time, a 14-year-old boy from Freedom Park Secondary School was stabbed to death by another learner, The incident happened after school on Thursday 20 February 2020. It is reported that the learners were near their homes and they are both in Grade 10.
The MEC of Education Panyaza Lesufi said the suspect is on the run and the police are investigating circumstances around this matter.
“We take this time to send our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and the school community, during this time of grief. No words are enough to express our sorrow at the loss of a child. We hope that the family will find comfort in the knowledge that we too share their loss.”
“We strongly condemn any acts of learner misconduct and relentlessly appeal to parents in assisting to enforce discipline in and outside the school environment, “ said Lesufi
This brings the total number of learners who have died in the province since the beginning of the school year to 16.
Pupils from Lofentse Girls School hospitalised after eating ‘space cakes’
In a separate incident, 39 learners from Lofentse Girls Secondary School in Soweto were hospitalised yesterday after eating poisoned cakes. The learners were taken to Chris Hani Baragwanath hospital and Bheki Mlangeni hospital after they complained about stomach pains while others were vomiting
“They were then transported to hospitals where they were seen and later discharged,” said Lesufi.
12 learners are still under observation in the hospital.
“We wish them a speedy recovery and hope they will resume with their studies soonest.”
