Statement by Yongama Zigebe, Secretary General of the United Democratic Movement
The United Democratic Movement (UDM) is deeply concerned about the recent tragedies involving the deaths of school children. The deaths of five children due to ingesting poison and the suicide of a boy last year, who was bullied for being gay, have shaken us profoundly. These incidents demand immediate attention and action, not only from the Department of Basic Education, but from us as a people.
The loss of young lives in such a tragic manner is heart-breaking and requires urgent investigation to understand the circumstances surrounding these incidents and to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
Our deepest condolences and thoughts are with the families, friends, and loved ones impacted by these tragic losses. The pain and sorrow caused by such devastating events are immeasurable, and we offer our unwavering support to all those who are grieving.
The National Centre for Child Protection said in September 2023 that 20% of high school pupils have tried to take their lives. Research by the SA Depression and Anxiety Group in February 2023, during Teen Suicide Prevention Week found that 9% of teenage deaths were by suicide.
These heart-breaking incidents underscore the critical importance of prioritising mental health care and intervention, particularly within schools.
It is clear that there is an urgent need for mental health resources to be easily accessible in schools, including easily accessible counselling and mental health awareness campaigns. If students are experiencing emotional distress or mental health issues, they need to feel empowered and encouraged to ask for assistance.
The UDM urges the Department of Basic Education to take several crucial steps, including deploying social workers in every school, initiating suicide and LGBTQia+ awareness campaigns, offering psychosocial support, and conducting teacher workshops on how to sensitively address students’ needs.
