A Grade 12 learner was stabbed to death, allegedly by a fellow learner at Thomas Nhlabathi Secondary School in Embalehle Townshipin the Govan Mbeki Local Municipality on February 27.

On Friday, February 28, the Department of Education’s spokesperson, Gerald Sambo, said the school’s preliminary report confirmed this incident.

“The department has since requested that the school send a detailed report on the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate incident. It condemns all forms of violence in the strongest possible terms, including bullying and the trafficking of weapons in schools. No learner should ever feel threatened or unsafe in a space that is meant for learning and teaching. The department extends its deepest condolences to the victim’s family.

ALSO READ: City of Mbombela wants to serve all its residents, municipal manager reiterates

“Our thoughts are with them as they mourn this unimaginable loss,” said Sambo.

ALSO READ: Prominent former Kruger Park official assassinated near Mkhuhlu

Officials of the inclusive education and wellness section were deployed on Friday to render psychosocial services to everyone who was affected by the learner’s tragic death.
“The department will continue to monitor this situation closely and provide regular updates.”