Two learners died after being shot in an incident at a school in KwaZulu-Natal on Tuesday, 22 September 2026. The KwaZulu-Natal minister of education, Sipho Hlomuka, was left saddened by this shooting incident that left two learners dead and three others with serious injuries. The learners were on their way to school when they were accosted by a group of gunmen who opened fire with no provocation.
Hlomuka has conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased learners, the injured, their schools and the affected communities. “This is a senseless and cowardly act of violence. Our children should be able to walk to school without fearing for their lives. Schools must remain places of safety, learning and hope,” Hlomuka said.
He called on anyone with information that can lead to the speedy arrest of the perpetrators to contact relevant authorities. The department has activated psychosocial support for the affected learners, educators and families. The matter has been reported to the South African Police Service. Anyone with information that can assist the investigation is urged to come forward.
