Ganyesa, North West – A tragic incident at Huhudi Secondary School has left the local community in shock after a 16-year-old Grade 10 learner died on Friday, August 8, 2025, following an alleged punishment for arriving late to class.
SUPPORT THE FAMILY - GOD BLESS YOU
According to reports, the learner was reportedly instructed to run as a form of disciplinary action for tardiness. While carrying out the punishment, she experienced a medical emergency that ultimately led to her death. The exact cause of death is still under investigation.
Emergency services were immediately contacted, and the learner was transported to a nearby clinic by her mother and a teacher. Despite their efforts, she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
The North West Department of Education expressed deep condolences to the family, the school community, and classmates, describing the incident as “heartbreaking.” Provincial MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi, urged full cooperation with authorities to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.
“We are deeply heartbroken by the loss of such a young life. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and school community. The well-being of our learners remains our utmost priority, and we will work closely with the relevant authorities to understand what happened,” Motsumi said.
The incident has also raised concerns about disciplinary practices in South African schools. Although corporal punishment has been banned for more than two decades, cases like this highlight the ongoing risks associated with outdated disciplinary measures.
In response, the Department of Education has pledged a thorough investigation and has deployed psychosocial support services to the school to assist both students and staff in coping with the traumatic event. Counseling services are also being provided to the bereaved family.
Community members have expressed outrage, calling for stricter enforcement of policies that ensure student safety and promote non-violent disciplinary practices. This tragedy has sparked renewed debate over how schools can maintain order while protecting the dignity and well-being of learners.
As investigations continue, the family and the school community are left mourning a young life cut tragically short. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of safe, supportive, and humane disciplinary practices in educational institutions.