By Alicia Mmashakana
Gauteng education MEC Matome Chiloane is devastated by the death of Simphiwe ‘Mcebo’ Biyela, an 18-year-old Grade 11 learner from Musi High School in Soweto, saying the department is doing everything it can to ensure the safety of pupils.
Biyela was allegedly stabbed by a University of Johannesburg student while returning home on Tuesday, resulting in disturbances at Musi High School and other institutions in Pimville, Soweto.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the learner’s family, friends, and the entire community during this painful time. The department remains committed to supporting the school and ensuring the safety and well-being of all learners and staff. Learning and teaching will continue as normal tomorrow,” he said in a statement.
Schooling was disrupted again at Musi during the third period when a group of approximately 150 students forced their way out of the school grounds on Thursday. They disrupted classes two other schools in the area before marching to the University of Johannesburg in protest of Biyela’s death.
The department has confirmed that the pupils at the schools are safe and police are investigating Biyela’s stabbing.
“We plead for communities in the surrounding areas to allow law enforcement agencies to address this injustice, and refrain from further disrupting schooling,” Chiloane said.
INSIDE EDUCATION
