Increase In School Deaths Alarming

MEDIA STATEMENT ISSUED BY:
MR ALFRED MPONTSHANE MP
IFP SPOKESPERSON ON EDUCATION

October 17, 2006

The Inkatha Freedom Party has noted with shock and concern that yet another schoolchild has died as a result of the upsurge in serious crimes at schools across South Africa, said the IFP's Spokesperson on Education Mr Alfred Mpontshane MP.

"The IFP would like to convey our condolences to the family of the Limpopo schoolgirl who was fatally stabbed 28 times yesterday, by her boyfriend, a fellow pupil," said Mr Mpontshane.

"We know that the Education Minster has admitted that South Africa has got a problem with violence at schools, but the IFP feels it is now time for her department to admit that this has become a serious crisis that needs urgent government intervention."

"Just last week a 14-year-old boy stabbed to death an 18-year-old schoolboy.
There is something seriously wrong with this picture and we must ask: 'How many more kids must die before we see decisive anti-violence action plans rolled-out at schools?' Government is failing our kids not only on an education level, but where it comes to their safety as well," concluded Mr Mponshane.


FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Mr Alfred Mpontshane MP: 082 441 6201
Liezl van der Merwe: 083 611 7470