Gqeberha Schoolboy Dies During Rugby Practice at Westering High

A 17-year-old Westering High School pupil died during rugby practice on Thursday afternoon in Gqeberha, leaving the school community devastated and prompting a police inquest into the incident.

The learner, identified as Kungawo Booi, was taking part in a scheduled rugby session when he was injured on the field. Emergency personnel responded to the school grounds, but despite medical efforts, he was declared dead at the scene.

Police Open Inquest Into Tragic Death

Police spokesperson Captain Sandra Janse van Rensburg confirmed that Kabega Park police attended the scene and have opened an inquest to establish the circumstances that led to the injury.

“According to preliminary reports, Kabega Park police responded to a complaint at a high school in Westering,” she said. “On arrival, they were informed that Kungawo was busy practising rugby when he was injured. He received medical attention on the scene but passed away.”

Police said further details would form part of the ongoing investigation.

School Community in Mourning

Westering High School principal Hugo Muller expressed the school’s shock and deep sadness following the incident.

“Our school community is absolutely heartbroken,” Muller said on Friday. “Our thoughts are with his family, friends and the staff of the school.”

He said counselling support is being arranged for pupils and staff who witnessed the incident, acknowledging the emotional impact on those present.

Muller added that he would meet with Kungawo’s family on Friday and that the school would not be releasing further details until family engagements were concluded.

Support Measures Under Way

Educational psychologists and school support teams are expected to assist in the coming days as learners process the sudden loss of a fellow pupil. The school is also working closely with authorities as the investigation continues.