A devastating incident took place at Oakdale Secondary School in Ennerdale, Johannesburg, where a grade 8 schoolboy lost his life after being stabbed in a fight between pupils.
The incident occurred outside the school premises on Tuesday, allegedly due to gangsterism among students from different schools in the area.
The Gauteng Education Department has expressed deep concern over the incident. A grade 10 pupil, who was also involved in the fight, is currently receiving medical treatment in the hospital. The department has called upon the police to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.
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Steve Mabona, the spokesperson for the education department, emphasised the importance of ensuring the safety of children within the school environment. He conveyed the department’s condolences to the family and the school community, emphasising that no child should ever be harmed in such a manner.
MEC Matome Chiloane, responsible for Gauteng education and youth development, echoed these sentiments and called for justice to prevail. Chiloane expressed solidarity with the family of the deceased and extended well wishes to the student who is recovering in the hospital.
In response to the tragic incident, the education department has dispatched its psychosocial support unit to provide counselling for those who witnessed the incident. This support aims to help students and staff cope with the emotional aftermath of the incident.
This unfortunate incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for enhanced safety measures within schools. It is imperative that schools, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, work together to create an environment where students feel safe and protected.
The Gauteng education department is committed to ensuring that incidents like this do not occur again. They will continue to prioritise the safety and well-being of students, providing the necessary support and resources to prevent such tragic events in the future.
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