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Breaking the Silence: Gauteng Unites to Prevent Learner Suicides

In a year marred by tragedy, more than 40 young lives have been lost to suicide in Gauteng. The heart-wrenching statistics have prompted the Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG) to take a firm stand against this devastating issue.

Education MEC Matome Chiloane unveiled a comprehensive plan at a media briefing in Johannesburg on Sunday, emphasizing that it’s time for an integrated approach. The government, alongside sister Departments in Social Development, Health, and Community Safety, as well as the non-profit sector, is joining forces to combat this crisis.

Chiloane expressed the urgency of the situation: “We are joining hands with the Matthew Goniwe School of Leadership and Governance, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group, Childline, the Teddy Bear Foundation, and the National Association of Child and Youth Care Workers to help our learners and educators deal with the psychological challenges which may lead to suicide or suicidal thoughts.”

Gauteng has witnessed a heartbreaking series of premature deaths among learners and staff members who felt they had no other choice but to end their lives. Chiloane lamented, “Our statistics show that there have been more than 40 alleged incidents of suicides in Gauteng schools since the beginning of the 2023 academic year.”

He continued, “As the Department, we are devastated by these deaths and believe those numbers constitute far too many young lives that have been taken away from their families, friends, and our schools, before reaching their full potential.”

In an earnest display of solidarity, Chiloane pledged support to the affected families and friends: “We pledge our solidarity and support to the families and friends that were befallen by these tragic and premature deaths.”

The most recent tragedy struck on Friday, September 8, 2023, when an 11-year-old Grade 5 girl from Anzac Primary School in Brakpan took her own life, reportedly in response to parental reprimand over an alleged theft of R300.

Chiloane stressed, “This deeply distressing event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing sensitive issues with children and providing them with the necessary support and guidance during difficult times.”

The Gauteng government is leaving no stone unturned in its mission to prevent further loss. Their initiatives include the deployment of 500 Learner Support Agents (LSAs) to provide an early warning mechanism and peer counseling in support of 1,200 schools.

An additional 120 Social Workers will be on hand to assess learners’ risks, while 500 Ke Moja coaches will assist in raising awareness about substance abuse. The promotion of the Childline toll-free number (116) will offer counseling services free of charge to learners and educators in need.

These critical interventions coincide with World Suicide Prevention Day, observed annually on September 10, underscoring the government’s unwavering commitment to addressing the scourge of suicides and protecting the lives of its young citizens.

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