Two Pretoria learners commit suicide on same day

Gauteng MEC for education Matome Chiloane has expressed his profound sorrow after two learner suicide cases were reported in Soshanguve, north of Pretoria.

In one case, a Grade 10 by was discovered hanging in a Soshanguve secure centre dormitory during lunch on Monday, August 7.

“It is reported that the learner had been taken to the juvenile centre about two weeks ago and was awaiting trial,” said departmental spokesperson, Steve Mabona.

Mabona said in the other incident, a Grade 9 boy from Kgetsi Ya Tsie secondary school tragically took his own life at home on the same day.

Chiloane said a psycho-social support unit will be dispatched to assist accordingly.

“These incidents serve as a grim reminder that the emotional well-being of learners is a shared responsibility that requires immediate attention from all of us,” Chiloane said.

“As we mourn the loss of young lives, there is a growing determination to prevent future tragedies and foster a culture of support, compassion, and understanding.

“We wish to extend our condolences to families and school communities.”

Chiloane has pledged to do everything in his power to address the underlying causes of such tragedies and provide support to those affected.

“For immediate assistance and support, learners are encouraged to contact Childline on 116.”

The Childline toll-free helpline is available 24 hours a day and is confidential.

“However, if you want to say who you are and see a counsellor you can request for such accordingly,” Chiloane concluded.

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