The Education for Social Justice Foundation said that the government should do more to help learners and students in distress.
An education activist said that the suicide rate among schoolgoers was alarming. Exam periods are especially difficult for many pupils.
Two learners from a Paarl high school allegedly committed suicide within 48 hours of each other.
ALSO READ: Schäfer conveys condolences to families of 2 Gr.11 pupils who committed suicide.
The two 17-year-old, girls who attended La Rochelle High School in Paarl, Jade Gouws, and Zara Malherbe ended their lives last week.
Stellenbosch University also bid farewell to a post-grad Engineering student earlier this month.
Education activist Hendrick Makaneta said that the coronavirus pandemic has resulted in many people tragically ending their lives.
Makaneta said that the government needed to take action: “Government should find a way to deploy at least social workers in the terrain of education so that they are able to identify learners who show signs of anxiety. Learners who are suicidal.”
The foundation’s also urged communities to be aware of learners who might need special care at this time.
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group offers counselling for anyone who may urgently need them. To contact a counsellor between 8am-8pm Monday to Sunday, call: 011 234 4837 / Fax number: 011 234 8182. For a suicidal Emergency contact us on 0800 567 567. The 24hr Helpline is: 0800 456 789.
-EWN
In other news – Somizi responds to break-up rumours with a sweet and romantic breakfast with hubby Mohale – Video
Rumours have been swirling that Somizi Mhlongo and Mohale Motaung have split up. The couple are putting up a united front and if there are any issues they are dealing with them in private.
Somizi recently uploaded a video of the two of them having a beautiful breakfast. Rumours were flying on Sunday morning that Somizi Mhlongo and Mohale Motaung had split up following reports that the couple had encountered challenges in their relationship. Learn More
