Gauteng MEC for education Matome Chiloane has expressed his sadness following the untimely passing of two Ekurhuleni learners.
One of the learners was in grade 8 at Geluksdal Secondary School while the other was in matric at Nigeral High School. The two allegedly died by suicide on Tuesday and Thursday last week.
Chiloane said the learner from Geluksdal Secondary School allegedly consumed a poison at home on Tuesday evening.
She began complaining and was rushed to a nearby medical facility. Sadly, she died on the way to the medical facility.
“We wish to convey our deepest condolences to the families and school communities of these learners. Indeed, it is really concerning that learners will resort to taking their own lives,” said Chiloane.
“We call upon learners to always seek assistance for the necessary support to be provided. Our psycho-social support team will visit all affected schools to provide the required support to the school community and families once term three begins.”
The department urged learners who may be experiencing abuse or need counselling to contact Childline by dialling 116 for assistance.
On Tuesday, the MEC was in Pretoria after the body of Mia Kühn was found by the groundsman at Hoërskool Garsfontein.
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