Avantè Primary School learner allegedly takes his own life
The GDE confirmed a 12-year-old boy and Grade 7 Avantè Primary School learner allegedly took his own life during the school holidays.
Avantè Primary School is mourning the death of one of their own, a Grade 7 learner, who allegedly committed suicide during the school holidays.
Newly appointed Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane confirmed in a statement the boy (12) allegedly took his own life on Thursday, October 6.
“This incident occurred after counselling sessions with the learner at school, emanating from concerns over his well-being, before recess in September this year,” said Chiloane.
“Our Psychosocial Unit partnered with Vuka Ukhanye (NGO) and other local support systems to individually debrief and counsel learners, facilitating loss group internalisation and helping learners externalise their thoughts of concerns. We wish to convey our deepest sympathies to the family, and school community at large, for their loss. As the Department, we are shattered by this incident. We call upon learners who may be experiencing personal difficulties to reach out to our support systems that are readily available at their schools,” said MEC Chiloane.
MEC Chiloane will be visiting the family on Friday afternoon.
The Herald will be closely monitoring the story and will keep you updated on any developments.
