KEY POINTS
- A 21-year-old Grade 10 learner at Kgabareng Secondary School in Viljoenskroon, Free State, was arrested for allegedly stabbing a teacher during a dispute over late arrival.
- The Free State Department of Education has condemned the incident and pledged to provide psychosocial support to affected learners and teachers while working to curb school violence.
- The incident has reignited concerns about safety and discipline in South African schools, with calls for systemic reforms to address underlying challenges in the education system.
A shocking incident at Kgabareng Secondary School in Viljoenskroon, Free State, has left the community reeling after a 21-year-old Grade 10 learner was arrested for allegedly stabbing a teacher during a dispute over late arrival.
The stabbing incident, which occurred on Monday, 14 March 2025, has raised concerns about safety and discipline in South African schools.
According to Howard Ndaba, spokesperson for the Free State Department of Education, the altercation began when the teacher confronted the learner about his alleged late arrival to school.
“While the teacher was addressing the matter as part of school procedures, the situation reportedly escalated,” Ndaba stated.
Sowetanlive reports that the circumstances surrounding the stabbing incident are still under review to ensure a fair and objective understanding of what transpired.
Education department condemns incident stabbing incident
The department has condemned the stabbing attack and announced plans to deploy psychosocial support services to the school.
“We will offer comprehensive counselling and emotional support to learners and teachers affected by the incident, ensuring their well-being and fostering a safe and supportive learning environment,” Ndaba added.
The department also pledged to work closely with law enforcement officials to curb violence and social ills in schools.
MEC for Education in the Free State, Mantlhake Maboya, expressed her dismay over the incident, calling it a stark reminder of the challenges facing the education system. “We cannot allow our schools to become arenas of violence. Teachers and learners deserve a safe environment where education can thrive,” she said.
The South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (SADTU) also condemned the attack, emphasizing the need for greater protection for educators.
This incident comes amid broader scrutiny of South Africa’s education system. Recent reports have highlighted issues such as teacher shortages, professional development gaps, and the prevalence of violence in schools.
Just two weeks ago, experts at the annual Education Lekgotla emphasised the need for urgent reforms to address these challenges.
Education remains a key driver of economic growth and social development, but incidents like this underscore the systemic issues that need to be resolved.
