The Gauteng MEC for Education and Youth Development, Matome Chiloane, has conveyed his condolences to the family, and the school community of a Grade 8 boy learner who died today on Wednesday, 8 February , after he was allegedly stabbed before the start of the curriculum delivery outside Oakdale Secondary School in Ennerdale.
Chiloane said: “It is with great sadness that we confirm a stabbing incident which took place in a school, and claimed the life of one of our learners, whilst injuring another. No child must ever be harmed, especially in our school environment. As such, we call upon our law enforcement agencies to ensure justice prevails. Our thoughts are with the family of the deceased learner, as well as the learner who is currently recovering in hospital.”
A Grade 10 boy learner, who was also involved in the stabbing incident is currently in hospital receiving medical attention.
The department said it is alleged that this incident is the result of a fight that broke out among learners on Tuesday, 7 February. There are further allegations of the fight and stabbing incident being influenced by prevalent gangsterism among learners from different schools in the area.
While police are investigating circumstances surrounding this incident, the Department dispatched its Psycho-Social Support Unit to provide counselling to those who witnessed the traumatic incident. The Unit will visit the school again tomorrow morning.
