A Grade 10 student has been arrested for allegedly stabbing a teacher during a dispute over late arrival at Kgabareng Secondary School in Viljoenskroon.
According to Howard Ndaba, spokesperson for the Free State Department of Education, the incident occurred on Monday, March 10, when the teacher confronted the 21-year-old student about being late. What began as a routine address escalated into violence. Ndaba stated that the situation is still being reviewed to understand the full circumstances of the incident.
The department has announced that psychosocial support services will be provided to offer counseling and emotional support to both students and teachers affected by the incident, helping to maintain a safe and supportive learning environment.
MEC Mantlhake Maboya has strongly condemned the attack, and the South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (SADTU) has also expressed its disapproval of the violence against educators. Ndaba added that the department would work closely with law enforcement to combat violence and social issues in schools, emphasizing the need for safe and nurturing educational spaces.