A shooting outside Bukimvelo High School in northern KwaZulu-Natal has left three Grade 12 pupils seriously injured, sparking concerns over school safety in the province. The incident occurred on a Friday afternoon, shortly after pupils attended a Physical Sciences revision session. An unidentified gunman allegedly opened fire on a crowd of pupils leaving the school, injuring Khetha Mthethwa, Thandolwethu Hadebe, and Sbahle Mahlaba. The three pupils were rushed to hospital with one suffering a serious arm fracture and another injured in both legs.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education has condemned the shooting, with Education MEC Sipho Hlomuka expressing deep disturbance over the senseless act of violence. Hlomuka emphasized that schools must be places of safety, learning, and development, not places where pupils fear for their lives. The department reported the matter to the South African Police Service, and investigations are under way to apprehend the suspect. The incident has raised questions about the effectiveness of existing security measures in protecting pupils and staff on school premises.
The same day as the Bukimvelo High School shooting, a security officer was shot dead during a robbery at Inanda Comprehensive High School. KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Sergeant Thenjiswa Ngcobo confirmed that the 44-year-old victim was shot at his workplace. Police are investigating cases of murder and business robbery. Hlomuka visited Inanda Comprehensive High School on Monday morning, reaffirming the importance of schools as safe spaces for teaching and learning.
The National Professional Teachers' Organisation of South Africa (Naptosa) has expressed concern over the escalating violence in schools, citing a lack of a "visible, co-ordinated and comprehensive plan" to address the issue. Naptosa KwaZulu-Natal chairperson Thirona Moodley described the incidents as a "stark and deeply disturbing indication that violence in our schools is escalating to a crisis point." The union called for urgent action from authorities responsible for school safety.
The incidents have highlighted the need for enhanced security measures in schools. Bongumusa Mnguni, KwaZulu-Natal secretary of the National Association of School Governing Bodies, called on the Education Department to fast-track the appointment of permanent security officers at schools. He also recommended that all schools be fitted with clear-view fencing and that police make random visits to schools.
Recent violent incidents in KwaZulu-Natal schools have resulted in the deaths of two 19-year-old pupils in Mandeni and Pinetown. These incidents have raised fresh questions about school safety and the effectiveness of existing security measures. Mnguni urged religious leaders and Education Department officials to identify pupils affected by the violence and provide them with psychological support, particularly with exams approaching.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education and other stakeholders are working to address the safety concerns in schools. With the class of 2026 approaching exams, the focus is on providing support to pupils and ensuring they can focus on their studies. Authorities are appealing for information from the public to help prevent further incidents and bring those responsible to justice.
Key points
- The shooting outside Bukimvelo High School has highlighted concerns over school safety in KwaZulu-Natal.
- The National Professional Teachers' Organisation of South Africa has called for urgent action to address the escalating violence in schools.
- Authorities are working to enhance security measures in schools, including the appointment of permanent security officers and the installation of clear-view fencing.
