This, following the murder of a 13-year-old from Senzile Primary, and a 19-year-old learner who was stabbed at a matric camp at Tempe in Bloemfontein.

Free State spokesperson, Howard Ndaba, says the Department of Education condemns violence at schools, and has called on all management teams, school governing bodies, and learners to strengthen school safety and build relationships with police.

He says that the department is horrified by the killing of a 13-year-old learner on Saturday.

Phemelo More was stabbed by 13-year-old Thabo Hlalele, a grade 6 learner from Kegomoditswe Primary, in front of other learners and teachers.

Earlier a 19-year-old Grade 12 learner was stabbed by a fellow pupil at a matric camp in Bloemfontein on Thursday.

Ndaba says that the two incidents follow the untimely death of a Grade 9 learner at Lerato Thando Secondary in Harrismith two weeks ago, after he was also stabbed by a fellow grade 11 learner.

Ndaba further adds that the Free State Education Department, together with Social Development, will provide psycho-social support for schools, families, and learners.

He also adds the matter is now being handled by the police in terms of the Child Justice Act, since the crime was committed by minors.

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