A 16-year-old boy has been stabbed to death at a school in Dimbaza, Eastern Cape, in an incident that sent shock waves through the community and raised questions about the safety of children in South African schools.

Siphosethu Jack (16) died on Friday after another pupil allegedly stabbed him in a classroom at Kuyasa Senior Secondary School. The tragedy has prompted strong condemnation from government officials and heightened fears among parents about the safety of their children.

Family fled violence

The National Department of Social Development revealed that Jack’s family had moved him to the school in an attempt to protect him from violence at his previous institution. The detail has added to the sense of tragedy surrounding his death, showing that even proactive efforts by concerned parents could not save the teenager.

Social Development Minister Dina Pule described the killing as a senseless act of violence that highlights the urgent need for better safety measures in schools.

“This tragic incident underscores the pressing need for effective measures to ensure that our schools are safe environments, free from violence and fear,” Pule said on Friday.

Parents demand action

The stabbing has caused widespread anxiety among parents in Dimbaza and surrounding areas, with many now questioning whether their children are safe at school.

Eastern Cape Social Development MEC Bukiwe Fanta acknowledged these concerns and said schools should be places of learning and growth, not violence and fear.

“We understand the anxiety that families feel when it comes to the safety of their children at school. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that schools are sanctuaries for learning and growth,” Fanta said.

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Call for collaboration

Both officials have called for a united approach to tackle school violence, saying schools, parents, community leaders and law enforcement agencies must work together to protect learners.

Pule said concerted efforts are needed to make sure children can attend school without fear of being attacked or killed.

“Together, we must ensure that no child has to live in fear and that all children can focus on their education and future without the looming threat of violence,” the minister said.

Fanta urged the community to unite in creating safe spaces where children can learn and develop without fear.

The department extended condolences to Jack’s family and all those affected by the tragedy.