North West Grade 10 Pupil Dies After Alleged Punishment For Being Late

A family in Ganyesa, North West, is mourning the sudden death of a Grade 10 learner from Huhudi Secondary School, who allegedly collapsed after being made to run as punishment for arriving late to class.

The incident occurred on Friday, 8 August 2025, and has left the school and local community in shock.

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According to reports, the teenager experienced a medical emergency during the punishment. The North West Department of Education confirmed that the school principal immediately contacted the learner’s parents and called for an ambulance.

While waiting for emergency services, the learner’s mother arrived at the school and, together with a teacher, rushed her to the nearest clinic — where she was sadly pronounced dead.

Department Expresses Shock and Condolences

Provincial MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi, conveyed her condolences to the bereaved family, classmates, and the Huhudi Secondary School community.

“We are deeply heartbroken by the loss of such a young life. On behalf of the Department, I extend our prayers and support to the family, friends, and school community during this painful time,” Motsumi said.

“The well-being of our learners is our utmost priority, and I urge that the school works closely with the relevant authorities to understand what happened.”

The Department has also emphasised its full cooperation with the ongoing investigation and has arranged psychosocial support services for the learner’s family, fellow pupils, and staff.

Grade 10 Learner’s Cause of Death Still Unknown

While the exact cause of death has not yet been determined, the Department of Education has expressed its wish for a speedy conclusion to the investigation.

Reports of corporal punishment — which is illegal in South African schools — have sparked public outrage and renewed calls for accountability in the education sector.

Authorities are now working to establish the circumstances leading to the tragedy, as the community awaits answers.

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