The community of Ganyesa in North West is reeling in shock after the tragic death of a 16-year-old Grade 10 learner from Huhudi Secondary School, who allegedly died while being punished for arriving late to class. The incident, which occurred on Friday, August 8, 2025, has sparked outrage, grief, and renewed calls for accountability in schools.
According to reports, the pupil was allegedly instructed by the school principal to run as punishment for her late arrival. While doing so, she reportedly experienced a medical emergency that ultimately claimed her life. The incident has drawn the attention of both the community and the provincial Department of Education, which has expressed deep sadness over the loss.
In a statement, the department confirmed that the principal immediately contacted the learner’s parents and called for emergency services when the girl collapsed. Her mother rushed to the school, and together with a teacher, they transported the teenager to the nearest clinic. Tragically, despite their efforts, she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Provincial MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi, extended heartfelt condolences to the grieving family, classmates, teachers, and the entire Huhudi Secondary School community. She described the death as heartbreaking and urged full cooperation with authorities to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.
“We are deeply heartbroken by the loss of such a young life. On behalf of the Department, I extend our prayers and support to the family, friends, and school community during this painful time. The well-being of our learners is our utmost priority, and I urge that the school works closely with the relevant authorities to understand what happened,” Motsumi said.
At this stage, the exact cause of death remains unknown, pending medical investigations. However, questions around corporal punishment have once again come under scrutiny. Corporal punishment was officially banned in South African schools more than two decades ago, yet reports of its practice continue to surface, raising concerns about the safety and rights of learners.
The Department of Education has assured the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted and expressed hope that it will be concluded swiftly. In the meantime, psychosocial support services have been dispatched to the school to assist both learners and staff in dealing with the traumatic incident. The family of the deceased pupil will also receive counselling and support.
Community members have expressed anger and disbelief, with many calling for stricter enforcement of policies against corporal punishment in schools. The tragedy has highlighted the urgent need for alternative disciplinary measures that safeguard learners’ dignity and health while maintaining order in the classroom.
As investigations continue, the family of the 16-year-old girl is left mourning a life cut short far too soon. Her death serves as a painful reminder of the consequences of outdated disciplinary practices and the importance of ensuring that schools remain safe environments where learners can thrive.
About the Author
