Eastern Cape Education Department Mourns Slain Engcobo Principal

The Eastern Cape Department of Education has expressed its deep sorrow following the fatal shooting of Khanyolwethu Senior Secondary School principal, Mr Mncedisi Ntentema, on the school’s premises in Cobosi, Engcobo.

In response to the tragedy, the Department, led by MEC for Education Fundile Gade, together with stakeholders from the Chris Hani East Education District, visited the school to offer support to grieving teachers and learners.

According to the Department, the school community has been left devastated by the loss of a principal who was widely respected for his commitment to discipline and learner success.

During the visit, psychosocial support teams were deployed to provide trauma counselling to learners and staff affected by the incident. The Department said the intervention aims to help the school community cope with the emotional impact of the tragedy.

MEC Gade assured the school that the Department would work closely with the South African Police Service to ensure justice is served.

He also emphasised that schools should remain safe environments for both learners and educators, stating that no teacher or learner should have to fear for their safety while at school.

Following the visit to Khanyolwethu Senior Secondary School, departmental officials travelled to the late principal’s family home to convey their condolences to the Ntentema family.

The Department also pledged its support with funeral arrangements and ongoing welfare assistance for the family during this difficult period.

The Eastern Cape Department of Education said its thoughts remain with the learners, teachers and staff of Khanyolwethu Senior Secondary School, the Ntentema family, and the broader Engcobo community as they mourn the loss of a respected education leader.

Komani News extends its condolences to the family, colleagues and learners affected by this tragedy.