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Gauteng Education Department Shaken by Two Tragic Deaths at Joburg Schools

Published

2 months ago

March 8, 2024

The Gauteng Department of Education has weighed in concerning the deaths at Johannesburg schools. At Jeppe High School for Boys, Grade 11 student Kaiden Bowie passed away after a rugby match against Hoerskool Die Anker on Tuesday, March 5. Bowie, feeling unwell post-game, tragically succumbed despite efforts to stabilise him by responding paramedics. Then, on Wednesday, 6 March, a Grade 12 teacher at Hyde Park Secondary School passed away. Paramedics pronounced the unfortunate outcome upon their arrival.

𝗠𝗘𝗗𝗜𝗔 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧
MEC @matomekopano is deeply saddened by the passing of a Grade 12 educator from Hyde Park Secondary School who was found hanging in the sports grounds on Wednesday, 6 March 2024, and a Grade 11 boy learner from Jeppe High School for Boys in… pic.twitter.com/Lf6D9IQ7YT
— Gauteng Department of Education (@EducationGP1) March 6, 2024

Also read: GP Education Department Claims School Principal Shooting by 13-Year-Old Learner Was Planned on WhatsApp

The department’s spokesperson, Steve Mabona, confirmed that the police are investigating both cases. Mabona also announced the deployment of the psychosocial support unit to provide crucial trauma counselling and support at the affected schools. The South African Depression and Anxiety Group has also extended its services to bolster support efforts.

Gauteng MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane, expressed profound sadness over the teacher and student’s deaths. He offered heartfelt condolences to the families of the departed and their respective school communities.

We are heartbroken to share the news of the passing of one of our learners, Kaiden Bowie (Grade 11 Koodoo) who tragically passed away yesterday afternoon.
Further information regarding his memorial service will follow in due course. pic.twitter.com/CUdNt5j3OT
— Jeppe Boys (@jeppeboys) March 6, 2024