The office of the MEC of Education in the Gauteng province was shocked to learn about the series of incidents in which four learners from Eqinisweni Secondary School in Ivory Park allegedly committed suicide between April 24 and May 5.
According to information reported, the first incident occurred on April 26.
It is alleged a female Grade 10 learner drank poison at home. She was rushed to a local clinic, where she was declared dead.
ALSO READ: Education MEC regrets the death of two learners in Kaalfontein
On May 2, a female Grade 11 learner was found dead at home by her parents. It is believed she also took her own life by consuming poison.
On May 3, a male Grade 11 learner was hospitalised after allegedly consuming poison. He died while receiving medical treatment.
On May 5, a female Grade 12 learner also allegedly drank poison at home and died while being transported to a nearby clinic.
MEC Matome Chiloane said the department dispatched its psycho-social support unit to Eqinisweni Secondary School to provide the necessary counselling to the school community.
The team will also extend its counselling services to the respective bereaved families.
ALSO READ: Two Thembisa families left devastated after the drowning of two boys
“It is indeed heart-wrenching to witness the loss of young lives. We extend our deepest condolences to the families affected by their loss.
“Mental health support services will be bolstered in schools to ensure learners receive the necessary assistance and guidance during difficult times.
“It should be noted that our partnership with the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) has yielded positive results in Tsakane, where we previously had a similar slew of unfortunate learner suicides.
“The department commits to continuing with this partnership and conducting learner mental health roadshows at affected schools,” said Chiloane.
The Gauteng Department of Education urges learners to reach out to support structures and their available resources when they face challenges.
Such structures include Childline SA. Dial 116 toll-free.
Learners can also contact SADAG on 0800 567 567 or 0800 456 789.
