The Gauteng Department of Education has confirmed two tragic learner deaths in separate incidents, leaving the province in shock and prompting renewed calls for safer communities.
Gauteng MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane, has expressed deep sorrow following the fatal stabbings of two learners in unrelated cases that occurred just days apart.
In the first incident, a 17-year-old Grade 8 learner from Forest High School in Johannesburg was reportedly attacked and stabbed on Friday, 20 March 2026. The incident took place at a nearby park after school hours. The learner sustained serious injuries and was rushed to hospital, but later died despite medical efforts.
In a separate tragedy, a Grade 12 learner from Dalview Secondary School in Ennerdale was fatally stabbed on Monday, 23 March 2026. The attack occurred in an open veld as the learner was walking home from school.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing, and police are working to determine the circumstances surrounding both incidents.
The department has since mobilised psycho-social support services to assist affected learners, educators, and grieving families during this difficult time.
“This is a deeply painful loss for our education community. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and both school communities affected by these tragedies. Violence against our learners, whether within or outside school premises, is unacceptable and cannot be tolerated. We call on communities to work closely with law enforcement to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice, and to stand united in protecting our children so that our schools remain safe spaces for teaching and learning,” said Chiloane.
The Gauteng Department of Education has encouraged the public to remain vigilant and support efforts to protect children and schools across the province.
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