A memorial to celebrate the life of slain 24-year-old teacher Gadimang Daniel Mokolobate will be held on Thursday.
Mokolobate’s memorial service will be held in Luhurutshe township outside Mahikeng.
Mokolobate was fatally stabbed by a learner at Ramotshere Secondary School in the North West.
Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga and North West MEC for Education, Sello Lehari, visited the 24-year-old teacher’s home on Monday.
“It is indeed heart-breaking that a family has lost a breadwinner, a mother has lost a child and the sector has lost a talented young educator. It brings into sharp focus the question of school safety and the fact that it is not only a school issue. It is a societal issue that requires us to re-engage and strengthen our social fabric,” said the Minister.
The young educator, who had just started his job in April, was not only a breadwinner but was also in the process of building a new family home in Ramatlabama village outside Mahikeng in the North West.
“It was an emotionally challenging afternoon for all involved, interacting with the family that looked to this young man for a brighter future -- only to have their hopes and dreams for his life dashed in such a tragic manner,” said Motshekga.
Both the national and provincial education departments have committed to work together to support the educator’s family.
The Minister is also in talks with social sector partners, including the South African Police Service and Department of Social Development, to establish a colloquium.
“The [colloquium] will allow a sector-wide response to strengthening the social infrastructure in schools, as the safety of learners and teachers goes beyond fencing and policing,” said Motshekga. – SAnews.gov.za
