Research by the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) in February, during teen suicide prevention week, found that 9% of teenage deaths were by suicide. It also found that the number of suicides among young people has risen significantly in recent years.
The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has expressed concern about incidents of suicide and suicide attempts at a number of schools within the province.
This comes as there had been a number of recorded suicides at Tsakane Secondary School in Brakpan recently.
Teen suicide surge
Earlier this month two girls from the secondary school died by suicide by consuming poison, while four other pupils, two girls and two boys, are currently in hospital recovering after ingesting poison.
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane noted:
The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) is regrettably aware of an incident where two girls in Grades 8 and 12 from Tsakane Secondary School allegedly consumed poison at their respective homes and unfortunately passed away on Monday, August 7, and Tuesday, August 8, 2023, respectively.
He also confirmed the death of a general worker at Tsakane Secondary School who committed suicide by consuming poison at his home on August 18.
These deaths come barely two months after two Ekurhuleni learners who allegedly committed suicide within days of each other — a grade 8 girl from Geluksdal Secondary School in Brakpan on June 29 and the second a grade 12 girl from Nigel High School on July 4. The department said, according to information, they took poison.
Police investigations
Chiloane said authorities were gravely concerned by the incidents at Tsakane Secondary School. Officials visited the school on last week with law enforcement agencies and social workers.
GDE spokesperson Steve Mabona said the police are currently investigating circumstances surrounding the death of the learners who committed suicide.
“They will indicate on how far their investigation, so we'll play by ear and also interact with them and check on the latest development," adds Mabona.
He highlighted that it was quite concerning what is really happening at the school and the department is working closely with stakeholders to offer support to learner.
Support for learners and teachers
According to the department, the necessary psycho-social support was also provided to the learners, and classes continued without disruptions. In addition, the SADAQ volunteered to deploy some of the officials from their Trauma Centre to the school who have been learners and offering support and guidance.
Chiloane noted “Pupils are encouraged to reach out to our officials and interact with professionals for necessary assistance by calling Childline on 116.”
We wish to convey our condolences to the families of the bereaved pupils and one general worker, wishing that the entire school community finds peace during this time.
Furthermore, the department’s Employee Wellness Team will also be deployed to the school to assist staff members.
Chiloane said a meeting will be held with parents in the Brakpan community on Sunday, August 27, to address the concerning behaviour.
If you or anyone you know is suffering from mental health issues, you can contact:
- Sadag's 24-hour mental health helpline: 0800 456 789
- SA Federation for Mental Health: 011 781 1852
- Lifeline South Africa: 0861 322 322
