By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
MEC for Education in Gauteng, Panyaza Lesufi, is expected to visit the Tsakane Secondary School following the death of a learner last week.
Fifteen-year-old Nhlanhla Shabalala died after he was allegedly assaulted by a teacher and a caretaker on Tuesday.
Spokesperson for the department, Steve Mabona, said the MEC would travel to the school for a report on the Grade 10 learner’s death and will visit the learner’s family to offer condolences.
On Monday morning, scores of learners marched to the local police station following Shabalala’s death, with the aim to embark on a shutdown.
It is reported that the boy had gone back to the school to collect his backpack and cellphone after they were taken by a group of boys who reportedly ganged up on him the day before.
When he arrived at the school, the caretaker and teacher immediately identified him from the previous day and chased him away.
In a video that has since gone viral, a man, who is identified as a teacher, and a caretaker at the school can be seen wrestling Shabalala, with his body pinned to the ground. In the background, learners are heard cheering while others are confused as to why he is being assaulted.
The teenager’s father, Oupa Shabalala, said they were shocked when his son was in the company of the police.
“I was told the school called the police after Nhlanhla was involved in a fight at this school.”
“He left to go to his grandmother’s home, which is close to our home, but shortly after, we were called and told he was vomiting blood,” he said.
Shabalala succumbed to his injuries and was declared dead at Pholosong Hospital.
The grieving father said they are demanding answers and justice for their son.
Tsakane’s police spokesperson Sgt Lerato Mngomezulu confirmed they have opened an inquest docket and investigations are underway.