In just ten days, four learners from one school had committed suicide and as a result, the Department of Basic Education is concerned. The learners from Eqinisweni Secondary school in Ivory Park reportedly ended their lives by drinking poison in separate incidents between 26 April and 5 May.

The Department of Education announced that the first incident happened on 26 April ,where a learner in Grade 10 drank poison at home and was rushed to the local clinic where she was unfortunately declared dead. In another incident which occurred on 2 May, a Grade 11 girl learner was found dead at home by her parents, the department received information that she also allegedly drank poison to end her life. Unfortunately, on 3 May, another learner who was in matric was hospitalised after he allegedly consumed poison and died while he was receiving medical treatment. The Department said on 5 May, another Grade 12 learner, a girl, also allegedly drank poison at home and sadly passed away while being transported to a nearby clinic

Spokesperson Steve Mabona said they've sent their psycho-social support team to the school to provide necessary counselling to the school community. "The team will also extend its counselling services to the respective bereaved families. The Gauteng Department of Education urges learners to reach out to support structures and resources we have made available in instances where they might be facing any challenges. Such structures include Childline, which can be contacted by dialing 116. Learners can also contact the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) on 0800 567 567 or 0800 456 789," said Mabona.

MEC Matome Chiloane expressed deep sadness and his heartfelt condolences to the grief-stricken families. "It is indeed heart-wrenching to witness the loss of young lives. We extend our deepest condolences to the families affected their loss. Mental health support services will be bolstered in schools to ensure our learners receive the necessary assistance and guidance during difficult times. It should be noted that our partnership with SADAG has yielded positive results in Tsakane where we previously had a similar slew of unfortunate learner suicides. As such, the department to commits to continuing with this partnership and conduct learner mental health roadshows to affected schools," said MEC Chiloane.