By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Gauteng Education Department has confirmed that two learners have died by suicide in Ekurhuleni, East of Johannesburg
MEC Matome Chiloane has expressed his sadness at the untimely passing of two learners who took their own lives.
According to the department, a Grade 8 girl learner from Geluksdal Secondary School in Ekurhuleni and a Grade 12 girl learner from Nigel High School, also in Ekurhuleni, took their lives on Tuesday and Thursday respectively.
The department said according to information at its disposal, the learner from Nigel High School consumed poison at her home on Thursday and passed away.
The learner from Geluksdal Secondary School also consumed poison at her home on Tuesday in the evening. She was rushed to a nearby medical facility but died in the vehicle while being transported to receive medical attention.
“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. We call upon learners to always seek assistance for necessary support to be provided. Our psycho-social support team will visit all affected schools to provide required support to the school community and families once Term 3 begins,” MEC Chiloane said.
Learners who may be experiencing abuse or need counselling are encouraged to contact Childline by simply dialing 116 for assistance.
Meanwhile, the department said it would provide psychosocial support to the family and peers of Hoërskool Garsfontein following the discovery of a Grade 10 pupil’s body at the school.
It is understood that a security guard found 16-year-old Mia Kühn’s body on the school’s rugby field on Tuesday morning.
Kuhn’s family will also receive the necessary support from the department’s psychosocial support team.