Shock and Mourning at Inxiweni Primary School in Tembisa

Teachers, pupils, and parents were left reeling on Tuesday afternoon after a deadly shooting claimed the lives of two women at Inxiweni Primary School in Tembisa, Ekurhuleni. The victims the 58-year-old school principal and a 55-year-old administrative staff member, were found shot inside the school’s administration block.

The attack occurred around 5 pm, just as staff were preparing for a meeting scheduled later in the week, according to Gauteng Education Department (GDE) spokesperson Steve Mabona.

“Colleagues in a nearby office reportedly heard gunshots. Fearing for their safety, they hid until it seemed safe. When they came out, they found the principal and administrator lying in the passage of the admin block,” Mabona said.

Emergency services were called immediately and responded swiftly, but tragically, both women were declared dead at the scene. Police have launched a full investigation into the incident.

A Community in Shock

The timing of the tragedy has added a chilling resonance, coming during national efforts to highlight gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) ahead of the G20 Women’s Shutdown, spearheaded by the non-profit Women for Change. Social media campaigns turned purple this week as communities across South Africa raised awareness about the escalating crisis of violence against women.

“We are horrified by this senseless and brutal act committed within a school a place meant to be a sanctuary for teaching and learning,” said Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane.

Premier Panyaza Lesufi and Chiloane visited Inxiweni Primary on Tuesday evening to assess the scene and offer condolences to the grieving families. Mabona confirmed that psychosocial support teams will be dispatched to the school to provide trauma counselling to learners and staff, alongside employee wellness officials for affected staff members.

Community Demands Answers

The senseless nature of the shooting has sparked fear and anger in Tembisa, with parents and teachers questioning school safety protocols. While details about the perpetrator remain scarce, Chiloane urged law enforcement to act swiftly.

“Our thoughts and deepest condolences go to the families of the principal and the staff member whose lives were tragically cut short. We urge law enforcement authorities to move quickly to bring the perpetrator to justice,” he said.

Social media has reflected the community’s grief, with parents expressing concern for the safety of their children and fellow educators:

• “How can a school, a place we trust to protect our kids, be the scene of such horror?” one user posted.

• “Sending prayers to the families. Schools must be safe spaces, not places of fear.”

A Tragic Reminder Amid National Awareness

The Inxiweni shooting comes at a moment when South Africa is already grappling with rising levels of gender-based violence, a crisis that has mobilized activists, unions, and government institutions alike. The tragedy highlights the urgent need for stronger safety measures in schools and communities, particularly for women and children.

“This is a stark reminder that violence can strike anywhere, even in spaces meant for learning and growth,” Mabona said.

As authorities investigate, the community of Tembisa mourns two pillars of education, women whose dedication to teaching and administration touched countless lives.