Reports indicate that the pupil's death occurred on Thursday.
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The Select Committee on Education has expresses concern following reports that a grade three pupil in the Eastern Cape had taken her life, reportedly due to bullying
Makhi Feni, the Chairperson of the committee, extended condolences to the family, fellow pupils and teachers affected by the tragedy.
“It is not normal that a learner as young will commit this kind of act. We are therefore calling for a thorough investigation into this incident. Bullying is a challenge in our schools that educators should never be tired of fighting,” he said.
Feni emphasised the role of schools in providing safety and care for children.
“Our children must find parental love and protection in schools. This is a sad story that will reflect on our system, and the better these kinds of incidents are attended to and resolved the better." This is a sad story that will reflect on our system, and the better these kinds of incidents are attended to and resolved the better." The committee called on the school, as well as provincial and national departments of basic education, to act decisively to prevent similar tragedies.
“The reality is that our schools lack social work and welfare services as well as learner security."
He added that the province must provide support to the family.
“The committee will seek further information on this matter. The province must assist the family with all in its power."
Reports indicate that the pupil's death occurred on Thursday, but further details remain limited.