Messages of condolences have been pouring in, following the sudden death of a Glenwood High School pupil during a soccer warm-up on Tuesday.
In a statement, the Department of Education in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) said the Grade 10 pupil had requested to be substituted and stepped aside for some air before collapsing.
“Despite the tireless efforts of paramedics to resuscitate him, he was pronounced deceased at the scene,” it read.
The department said upon receiving the devastating news, its head, Nkosinathi Ngcobo, immediately rushed to the scene alongside the boy’s family, teachers, and other departmental officials to offer support.
“As the KZN Department of Education, we recognise the immense grief felt by all that knew him. We will continue to work closely with Glenwood High School to ensure the necessary psychological and emotional support is provided. We ask the community to keep the family in their thoughts and prayers. May the young soul rest in eternal peace,” it read.
In a statement on Tuesday, the school said: “It is with a great amount of sadness that we must confirm that a learner from our school passed away this afternoon. Out of respect for the family we are unable to disclose any further particular details at this moment.”
The school further extended its condolences to the boy’s family and wished them “immense strength during this profoundly difficult time”.
The school added that while they appreciated and understand that there will be much speculation and potential for misinformation at this traumatic time, they therefore wanted to confirm that there had been an incident where a boy had collapsed following an activity.
“Despite efforts from Glenwood staff, and paramedics he, unfortunately, passed away. May a wonderful young Glenwood boy rest in eternal peace."
The school added that they have engaged with the education department to ask for counsellors to be made available for the school community.
On Facebook, several messages of condolences have been shared.
Barbara Aissing said: “As a former Glenwood parent and grandparent, I extend my most heartfelt condolences to this young man's family and friends, as well as all of Glenwood High School. My thoughts too are with those who attended to the young man at the time, and were with him at his demise. Bless you and thank you. Rest in peace young man.”
Jeppe High School for Boys said: “Sending the Glenwood family our deepest condolences for your immense loss. The Jeppe community have his family, teachers, friends and fellow brothers in our thoughts as you all navigate this difficult time.”
Sean Ashley Barnabas said: “Shocked. As a parent of a child in Glenwood at present, I can only imagine what parents are feeling. Glenwood is a great school. Let us all rally around the parents and support. Wonderful to see the support of everyone. Truly sad news”
Terona Naidoo-Govender said: “Absolutely heartbroken for this young man's family, friends and those who were last with him when this tragedy occurred. We will pray for strength for the family, teachers and fellow learners during this difficult time. May your spirit soar high young man.”