The Congress of South African Students (COSAS) has voiced its deep anger following the killing of 16-year-old, Siphosethu Jack,  by another learner at Kuyasa Senior Secondary school in Dimbaza last Friday, 18 September 2026. The student organisation has subsequently demanded that there be sweeping structural changes across the education sector in an effort to prevent such gruesome incidents in future.

The deceased Jack had been transferred to the school specifically to protect him from surrounding community violence, only to meet his tragic end within what should have been a safe learning environment. The teenage suspect was swiftly taken into custody as the tragedy sparked nationwide outrage.

At the moment, the case is currently before the courts while police investigations continue.

“What happened at Kuyasa Senior Secondary School should shake the conscience of the entire country and, most of all, that of the government,” COSAS said in condemnation through an official statement.

The student organisation argued that classrooms are being turned into crime scenes because authorities have failed to provide adequate protection.

In response to the growing crisis, COSAS has issued severe criticisms against the Department of Basic Education (DBE) while laying out non-negotiable demands for systemic reform.

The organisation insists that the government must immediately employ professional psychologists in all schools, replace unqualified security guards with well-resourced personnel, and deploy regular police visibility.

Furthermore, COSAS called for the strengthening of Life Orientation as a vital social intervention and demanded decisive leadership intervention from the Presidency to combat the root causes of school violence.

Eastern Cape Department of Education spokesperson, Malibongwe Mtima, noted that provincial psychosocial support teams have been deployed to counsel traumatised learners and educators at the school, while urging parents to actively check their children's bags for weapons.

Meanwhile, Social Development Minister, Dina Pule, also condemned the senseless violence.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Siphosethu's family during this incredibly difficult time,” said Pule.

As investigative teams gather forensic evidence and interview eyewitnesses, communities and student bodies alike continue to demand stronger, proactive measures to ensure that educational facilities across South Africa remain safe havens for every child.