LEARNING AND teaching were disrupted for two consecutive days in Pimville, Soweto, following the tragic death of 17-year-old Simphiwe 'Mcebo' Biyela, a Musi High School pupil who was fatally stabbed, allegedly over a school beanie.
The heartbreaking incident sparked outrage across the school community, leading to widespread disruption at Musi High School and other nearby schools on Wednesday, 7 May.
Although teaching had resumed at Musi High on Thursday, 8 May, schooling was again interrupted during the third period when a group of about 150 pupils allegedly forced their way out of the premises.
The pupils marched to nearby schools, disrupting learning and recruiting other pupils, including those from primary schools, before heading to the University of Johannesburg's Soweto Campus to protest Simphiwe's death.
According to Gauteng Department of Education spokesman Steve Mabona, the situation was quickly contained and learning resumed where possible.
"The GDE can confirm that pupils at the affected schools were safe, and curriculum delivery continued accordingly. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding Simphiwe's death," said Mabona.
He further confirmed that the department's Psycho-Social Support team has been deployed to Musi High School to provide trauma counselling to learners, staff, and the broader school community.
"We extend our deepest condolences to the pupil's family, friends, and the entire community during this painful time. We remain committed to supporting the school and ensuring the safety and well-being of all learners and staff. Learning and teaching will continue as normal tomorrow," he said.
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Mabona also appealed to the community to refrain from further disruptions and allow law enforcement to do its work.
"We plead for communities in the surrounding areas to allow the law to take its course and not disrupt schooling any further," he added.
The University of Johannesburg (UJ) expressed its sadness and condemned the incident, which reportedly involved some of its students.
"This incident occurred off campus. Two students are currently in police custody, and the matter is under investigation. We extend our heartfelt condolences and sympathy to the deceased learner's family and school community. This is not the kind of news any parent expects," said Lebogang Seale, UJ's Senior Manager for Strategic Communications.
Seale further said: "UJ wishes to place on record that it condemns, in the strongest terms possible, any acts of violence or intimidation. Such behaviour is completely at odds with the University's core values of respect, dignity, and integrity. We will not hesitate to take firm action against any student found guilty of wrongdoing."
