Learner commits suicide after failing grade 11

The Gauteng Department of education is shocked and saddened by the suicide death of a grade 11 learner from the Strauss Secondary School in Ekangala, east of Pretoria.

According to Steve Mabona the learner committed suicide after he received his year-end academic report on Wednesday, 6 December.

“It is alleged that the learner’s mother found him hanging in the garage at his home. Subsequently, emergency medical services were called to the scene and the learner was transported to Dark City Local Clinic, where he was declared dead on arrival,” Mabona said,

The department undertook to provide counselling to all affected by this tragedy. “It is regrettable that such an incident occurred, as the department is working jointly with NGOs such as ChildLine South Africa.

“Suicide is not an option since there is available intervention and support for learners. The department urges parents and the community to closely monitor the behaviour of learners and seek intervention timeously,” Mabona said.

MEC Panyaza Lesufi appealed to learners not to commit suicide and emphasised that failing a grade does not signify the end. “We will all fail at some point, however, we must be encouraged to start over and strive to reach our desired goals,” Lesufi said,

“We would like to convey our most sincere condolences to the family of the departed learner.”

Learners experiencing depression due to their poor academic performance may contact the following numbers below for intervention and support: Childcare toll free line:  0800 055 555, or Childline Gauteng contact number: 011 645 2000 (during working hours).

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