Gauteng education MEC Matome Chiloane has expressed concern after four pupils from Eqinisweni Secondary School in Ivory Park in Midrand allegedly committed suicide by drinking poison.
The incidents took place between April 26 and May 5.
The department said a grade 10 girl drank poison at home on April 26. She was rushed to a local clinic where she was declared dead.
On May 2, a grade 11 girl was found dead at home by her parents. It is alleged she also took her own life by consuming poison.
The next day, a grade 11 boy was hospitalised due to having allegedly consumed poison. He died while receiving medical treatment.
On May 5, a grade 12 girl also allegedly drank poison at home and died while being transported to a nearby clinic.
Gauteng education department spokesperson Steve Mabona said its psychosocial support unit had been dispatched to the school to provide counselling to the school community.
“It is indeed heart-wrenching to witness the loss of young lives. We extend our deepest condolences to the families affected by their loss.
“Mental health support services will be bolstered in schools to ensure our learners receive the necessary assistance and guidance during difficult times,” Chiloane said.
TimesLIVE
Four 'suicides' at Ivory Park school in 10 days
Image: 123RF
Gauteng education MEC Matome Chiloane has expressed concern after four pupils from Eqinisweni Secondary School in Ivory Park in Midrand allegedly committed suicide by drinking poison.
The incidents took place between April 26 and May 5.
The department said a grade 10 girl drank poison at home on April 26. She was rushed to a local clinic where she was declared dead.
On May 2, a grade 11 girl was found dead at home by her parents. It is alleged she also took her own life by consuming poison.
The next day, a grade 11 boy was hospitalised due to having allegedly consumed poison. He died while receiving medical treatment.
On May 5, a grade 12 girl also allegedly drank poison at home and died while being transported to a nearby clinic.
Gauteng education department spokesperson Steve Mabona said its psychosocial support unit had been dispatched to the school to provide counselling to the school community.
“It is indeed heart-wrenching to witness the loss of young lives. We extend our deepest condolences to the families affected by their loss.
“Mental health support services will be bolstered in schools to ensure our learners receive the necessary assistance and guidance during difficult times,” Chiloane said.
TimesLIVE
Girl, 7, allegedly sexually assaulted by grade 7 pupil at Limpopo school
KZN pupil shares heartbreaking bullying experience on social media
Sky-high number of reported child abuse cases only the tip of the iceberg
SOWETAN | Sibusiso’s bullies must be punished
Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Trending
Latest Videos