The death of Zanda Cele, a pupil from Michaelhouse College, an Anglican Diocesan boarding school for boys located in the Balgowan valley in the Midlands of KwaZulu-Natal has left the school reeling from shock.
This after Cele collapsed and passed away in the school premises on Thursday. The news of his passing was confirmed by the school director Antony Clark.
Clark said before Cele passed on, he complained about mild flu conditions which were treated by the school doctor, Dr Poole.
“It is with the greatest sadness that I write to inform the Michaelhouse community that Zanda Cele, an E Block boy in Farfield, passed away,” said Clark.
“Zanda presented at the San [sanatorium] on Wednesday afternoon complaining of mild flu conditions.”
CPR applied but failed
Cele stayed overnight at the doctor’s rooms and had a peaceful night’s rest.
“On Thursday morning, he was up and about but when he was feeling no better, arrangements were made to take him to the hospital at Hilton Life.
“Before that could take place, he collapsed, and CPR [cardiopulmonary resuscitation] was applied to no avail.
“We extend our deepest sympathy to Zanda’s family at this extremely difficult time for them and our school community.”
Clark urged the school community to uphold Zanda, his family and the boys of the school in their prayers as they grieve.
Grade 12 year-end exams
The shocking incident took place as the matriculants are writing final examinations.
Clark said appropriate arrangements will be made in due course for counselling and support for the pupils.
Upon hearing the news, St Andrew’s College, an independent school in Makhanda in the Eastern Cape, issued a statement of condolences.
“The staff and pupils of St Andrew’s College offer their heartfelt condolences to the Cele family and the Michaelhouse community on the loss of their loved one, Zanda Cele.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad and difficult time.”
