North West Grade 10 pupil dies after 'running as punishment for being late'

The family of a school learner in the North West is mourning her death after she died while allegedly running during a corporal punishment imposed on her by the school principal for being late for class. 

The Grade 10 learner from Huhudi Secondary School in Ganyesa died on Friday, August 8, 2025.  

According to various media reports, the girl was punished for arriving late to class.

The North West Department of Education said they were saddened by the incident and stated the learner experienced a medical emergency during school hours. 

“The principal immediately notified the learner’s parents and called for an ambulance. The learner’s mother arrived at the school while awaiting emergency services, and together with a teacher, transported the learner to the nearest clinic, where she sadly passed away,” the education department said. 

The provincial MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi, extended her condolences to the learner’s family, classmates, teachers, and the Huhudi Secondary School community. 

The MEC called for the department’s cooperation with relevant authorities during the investigation.

 “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. 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,” Motsumi said. 

The cause of death of the teenager is not known at this stage. 

The Department said it wished for a speedy conclusion of the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. 

Psychosocial support services for the teenager’s family, learners, and staff at the school have also been arranged. 

robin.francke@iol.co.za

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