Probe into Limpopo teen’s suicide underway

The Limpopo Department of Education has confirmed to YNews that an internal investigation is underway over allegations that some officials bullied a 17-year-old learner, who later took his life due to the severity of the situation he was faced with at school.

Tshegofatso Ngoetjana, a Grade 9 learner at Taxila High School, in Polokwane, left a suicide note, expressing his distress over the alleged prolonged bullying.

The school’s principal, a teacher and a security guard are implicated in the matter.

In response to a previously published article by YNews, provincial spokesperson, Matome Moremi, reiterated the education department’s commitment to addressing the allegations.

“We are deeply saddened by this incident and are working closely with the school district director and school governing body to gather all relevant information,” Moremi stated.

He says they are providing psychological support to the Ngoetjanas as they navigate this difficult period in their life.

“While we cannot comment on specifics due to potential legal action the family seeks to pursue against us, it is important to clarify that the learner was suspended, not expelled, as previously suggested on social media,” Moremi added.

The provincial department faces mounting pressure to implement preventing measure to avoid future tragedies, as calls for systemic changes to protect learners from bullying grow louder on social media.

The Ngoetjana family meanwhile remains determined to hold the school accountable and has vowed to pursue legal action against the department for alleged negligence.

“We need to ensure that no other child suffers like Tshegofatso did,” said Tshegofatso’s grieving father, Lesetja Ngoetjana, who criticised the provincial education department for failing to intervene in the matter timeously. Written by YNews Contributor, Bukuta Nkuna