Tragedy in Soweto: Schooling Disrupted After Grade 11 Learner’s Death

The Gauteng education community is in mourning following the tragic death of an 18-year-old Grade 11 student from Soweto, which has caused widespread disruption to schooling in the area.

Simphiwe ‘Mcebo’ Biyela, a learner at Musi High School in Pimville, was allegedly stabbed to death while walking home on Tuesday. The suspect, reportedly a student from the University of Johannesburg (UJ), is under investigation, though the motive for the attack remains unknown.

The shocking incident ignited protests across Soweto schools on Wednesday, with learners walking out of class in solidarity. According to the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE), classes had resumed at Musi High School on Thursday morning, but unrest quickly returned.

“Approximately 150 learners allegedly forced their way out of the school premises,” the department reported. “This group allegedly disrupted two other schools in the area before marching to the University of Johannesburg in protest of Simphiwe’s passing.”

Despite the disturbances, GDE confirmed that all affected learners remained safe and curriculum delivery continued. In the wake of the trauma, the department has dispatched psycho-social support teams to provide counselling to learners, teachers, and the broader community.

Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane expressed deep sorrow over the incident, urging calm and allowing law enforcement to conduct a thorough investigation.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the learner’s family, friends, and the entire community during this painful time,” said Chiloane. “We urge the community to refrain from further disrupting schooling and allow the authorities to address this injustice.”

Simphiwe’s death has not only left a deep scar on his school and family but has also highlighted the urgent need for school and learner safety, especially around school zones.

The department confirmed that learning and teaching are expected to continue as normal, while police investigations into the stabbing are ongoing.

{Source: The Citizen}

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com