Two Grade 10 learners from the Vhembe East District in Limpopo have committed suicide after failing Grade 10. 

The separate incidents happened at Mphaphuli High School and Thohoyandou Technical School on Wednesday after the two male pupils received their report cards.

In a statement released on Friday, December 13, the Limpopo Department of Education said it was discomforted by the news of the learners’ passing.

Education MEC Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya extended her heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.

“The Limpopo Department of Education is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of two Grade 10 learners from the Vhembe East District who took their own lives. The two male learners who are both in Grade 10 from Mphaphuli High and Thohoyandou Technical School took their own lives after they failed to progress to Grade 11 next year. No words can adequately express the pain and grief that comes with losing a child. May you find strength and comfort in the memories you shared with your loved ones. Our hearts go out to the families, friends, and loved ones of these young individuals,” she said in a statement.

Matome Taueatsoala, the provincial education department spokesperson, cautioned the affected schools’ learners, educators, and staff to seek support during this difficult time.

 “Counseling services are available to help process emotions,’’ Taueatsoala said.
 “Parents and guardians are urged to rally behind their children in a supportive environment that promotes mental health and well-being. Learners struggling with suicidal thoughts must reach out to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) helpline or the department’s counselling services on the following contact details: SADAG Helpline: 0800 567 567,” he added.

Taueatsoala said the department’s Psycho-Social team, working with colleagues from the Department of Social Development, will visit the affected families and learners to assist with counselling.

Suicide among learners in South Africa remains a pressing concern, particularly after academic failures.

Studies indicate that failing a grade, including matric (Grade 12), can be a significant trigger for depression and suicidal thoughts among students.

In 2023, Gauteng alone reported 40 student suicides, underscoring the psychological toll faced by learners dealing with academic and societal pressures.

This issue is exacerbated by factors such as anxiety, depression, bullying, and the stigma associated with failure.​

While specific national statistics correlating grade failure directly with suicides are not always tracked, numerous cases highlight this link.

For instance, a Grade 11 learner in Gauteng tragically ended his life upon receiving his year-end academic report, illustrating how devastating the pressure to succeed can be​. 

Authorities have consistently urged families, educators, and communities to collaborate to create a supportive environment that reduces stigma and offers alternative pathways for academic recovery.