Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane visited the family of Sibusiso Mbatha (12), a Grade 6 boy learner from Khehlekile Primary School in Tsakane, who tragically took his own life on Monday. Mbatha was found hanging from the bathroom ceiling at his home in Thokoza, Ekurhuleni. It's alleged that the boy ended his life as he was constantly bullied at school.

Sibusiso Mbatha

THE DEPARTMENT TO INVESTIGATE

MEC Chiloane confirmed that an independent law firm will be appointed to investigate the circumstances surrounding the learner's death, also emphasising further psycho-social support to be provided to both the school and the family. The department has also launched an internal investigation into the bullying allegations that allegedly pushed the learner to take his own life. "At the centre of the report, those who were responsible for this tragic incident will be under scrutiny. They will be held accountable and on our side as the department we need to make sure that such an incident never happens again." He said since he came into office he appointed a number of law firms and with all the incidents that have been reported, families have received reports about the progress of their cases. "All the information is there so I'll make sure that they conduct a steady investigation."

LOSS OF A CHILD ONE TOO MANY

Chiloane said he was heartbroken as the loss of a child is one too many. "As the department, we should be doing more to provide the necessary support to our learners. Kids need to feel comfortable," he said adding that, "We've met with the family and we've heard their concerns and told them what we have committed ourselves to do." Chiloane said learner suicides have been occurring a lot of late. "We are working with Childline to try and curb this- the number is 116. We've partnered with different NGOs and NPOs that deal with mental health issues so that our learners have somebody to talk to. We've set up bullying boxes at school where learners can write the name of the bully and put it in the box." He also urged parents to take an active role in checking the well-being of their children since 40 such cases have been reported in Gauteng this year.

IMPORTANT NUMBERS

1. The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) 24-hour mental health helpline: 0800 456 789.
2. Sadag has a WhatsApp counselling line that operates from 09:00 to 16:00: 076 882 2775.
3. You can also contact the SA Federation for Mental Health on 011 781 1852
4. LifeLine South Africa on 0861 322 322.