Raw emotion at funeral

Sthembiso Sithole



Sheila Ngwenya attending a memorial service
of his son David Hlongwane.



The memorial service of 16-year-old David Hlongwane, who committed suicide after he had allegedly been bullied, was held last week Thursday at Lethabong Secondary School in Soshanguve.

Classmate, teachers, friends and family members gathered in their numbers to bid farewell. President of the school’s Representative Council of Learners, Boikayo Mamabolo, broke down after reliving a few moments with Hlongwane.

“This is a big loss for us. We never prepared ourselves fir this, but it brings us back to what we have lost and determines who we will become,” said Mamabolo.

Tears flowed from the eyes of Sheila Hlongwane, Hlongwane’s mother as she listened to the school governing body chairman giving his condolences. “He was very young. We will forever remember our child, an ambassador for Lethabong,” Mangaxa said.

Representing the teachers, Ms J Mokonyana described Hlongwane’s death as a sad loss. “We have failed as a school. As teachers we look at these children and hope to see them successful one day,” she said.

The representative of the district office of the education of Gauteng, Mrs Phokano said Hlongwane’s death should teach them how precious human life is. Charles Phahlane, spokesperson of the Gauteng Education said they sent councillors to help the family and pupils.