It is with profound sadness and shock that I must report that this afternoon, at approximately 16h30, acting Principal of Sithembele Matiso Secondary in New Crossroads, Ms Nomzoxolo Dziba, was shot and killed. The incident happened on the school premises.
I condemn this wanton act of violence in the strongest possible terms. Our schools should be places of safety, not places of violence. The fact that this crime took place on the school premises, despite the security measures put in place by Safe Schools, is entirely unacceptable and deeply concerning.
The Western Cape Education Department would like to extend their condolences to the husband and family of Ms Dziba. Our thoughts and prayers are with them at this very difficult time.
I want to urge the members of the community, parents, teachers and colleagues to assist the South African police Service (SAPS) in their investigation of this heinous crime.
The Western Cape Education Department will assist the police in every possible way. Our Safe Schools division will also work with the district office in investigating the incident. The department has sent councillors to the school to provide trauma support to members of staff that were present during the incident and will provide additional support tomorrow.
Media Enquiries:
Bronagh Casey
Cell: 072 7241422
Tel: 021 4672377
E-mail: brcasey@pgwc.gov.za
