The tragic death follows just short of a month before the matric exams were due to start in a year that has been marred by interruptions to schools as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

It is still unclear what drove the young learner to such lengths.

A memorial service was held at the school on Wednesday, 21 October.

The school told Sedibeng Ster that the bereavement committee feels that this was a sensitive matter and asked that the family be given some space to mourn the death of their child. On Facebook, messages of condolences came streaming in.

“My sincere condolences to the family, the teachers, the learners and to Mr Mohlatlego Evalt Makgwatha. I know that this has shaken the school.”

“Last thing to expect,” wrote Vuzo SogaSikhosana on the school’s official Facebook page.

The parents were not available for comment