The Gauteng Department of Education says it’s investigating claims of bullying at Khehlekile Primary School in Thokoza, east of Johannesburg after a grade six learner was found hanging at their home on Monday evening.
Department spokesperson Steve Mabona says police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
“We have dispatched the psycho-support team, working very closely with the Department of Social Development. We have started yesterday [Wednesday] to provide necessary counselling and we will continue with that process as it’s needed. The support will be provided to the family and the school community.”
In August, the Department of Basic Education said it was cognisant of the scourge of bullying in South African schools, and in a bid to try to minimise incidents, the department would enforce anti-bullying laws as part of the schools’ Code of Conduct.
The announcement followed reports on the rise of bullying in schools, including Queens High School in Johannesburg, following the tragic death of a 15-year-old learner.
The family of Brian Ndlovu says he allegedly died hours after being forced to consume a poisonous substance at school.
They allege he was a victim of bullying.
VIDEO: Pupil dies after alleged bullying at school
