By Lebone Rodah Mosima
A 16-year-old boy was stabbed to death in a classroom at an Eastern Cape school after his family had transferred him in the hope of protecting him from violence.
Siphosethu Jack was killed at Kuyasa Senior Secondary School in Dimbaza, prompting renewed concern about learner safety in the province.
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Social Development Minister Dina Pule and Eastern Cape Social Development MEC Bukiwe Fanta on Friday sent their condolences to Jack’s family and condemned the killing, which the department said was allegedly carried out by another learner.
“Siphosethu’s family had made the heart-breaking decision to transfer him to another school in the hope of protecting him from violence, only to suffer the unimaginable loss of their beloved son and grandson,” the department said.
The department said the killing was a “horrifying” act of violence that had shocked the Dimbaza community and raised concerns about the safety and well-being of children at schools.
Pule said the killing highlighted the need for measures to ensure schools were safe and free from violence.
“We stand united in condemning this senseless act of violence,” Pule said.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Siphosethu’s family during this incredibly difficult time. We extend our deepest condolences to them and to all those affected by this tragedy.”
“Together, we must ensure that no child has to live in fear and that all children can focus on their education and future without the looming threat of violence.”
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The department said the killing had also heightened concern among parents in Dimbaza and surrounding areas.
A case has been opened at Dimbaza Police Station.
