Matric pupil in Pinetown takes own life after exam
The National Professional Teachers' Organisation of South Africa (Naptosa) says the Education Department in KZN needs to provide counselling or support for matric pupils.
This after a Grade 12 from a school in the Pinetown District took her own life on Tuesday.
According to the Education Department's report, the pupil had just returned from school after writing her Zulu paper one exam.
Naptosa's Thirona Moodley says these pupils face anxiety because of the stress related to exams.
"The pressures that come with being in matric are insurmountable, pressures come from school, family, friends and the community and it is too much to bear."
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"Learners would find an easy way out. It is not the first time that we have had a matric learner commit suicide and schools have no counsellors for a very long time.
"There is no support in the schools and teachers can't do the counselling because firstly they don't have the time and expertise and it is not their responsibility."
In a separate incident, the department says a Grade 12 pupil from Pinetown died during a suspected stabbing incident involving a Grade 10 pupil.
Moodley says more random police searches are needed at schools to prevent this type of violence.
"This is such a loss to the the family and the community and the the school that a child has reached the end of 12-year schooling life and it has to end so tragically."
If you or someone you know are experiencing depression or anxiety, you can contact the South African Depression and Anxiety Group on 0800 567 567.
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