Tragic day for Gauteng Education: Marker dies, principal shot

Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane has expressed profound sadness over two separate incidents yesterday, involving the loss of a National Senior Certificate examination paper marker and a shooting at Northview High School.

A 50-year-old marker reportedly tripped and hit her head against a pole while leaving the Alberton marking centre yesterday evening. Despite being rushed to a local hospital, she succumbed to her injuries last night while receiving medical attention.

The department’s psychosocial support unit is on-site at the Alberton marking centre today to provide emotional support to affected colleagues.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased marker. Her commitment to the education sector was invaluable, and her untimely passing is a profound loss to all of us,” Chiloane says.

Principal shot on school premises

In a separate incident at Northview High School in Johannesburg, the acting principal was shot six times in his office by two unidentified armed men yesterday morning. Posing as individuals providing a tree-felling quotation, the men entered the school premises and opened fire before fleeing.

The acting principal was rushed to a medical facility and remains in ICU. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack.

The psychosocial support unit will also be dispatched to the school today to offer trauma counselling to learners and staff.

“As the department, we are deeply shocked by this brazen act of violence and lawlessness, which not only targeted a school leader but undermined the sanctity of our educational institution. We are working closely with law enforcement to ensure the perpetrators are brought to book.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the acting principal, his family, and the school community during this difficult time, and we wish him a speedy recovery,” Chiloane said. – SAnews.gov.za