The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation expresses deep concern and outrage following the killing of 19-year-old Lufuno Khangale, a Grade 12 learner from Daleview Secondary School in Ennerdale.

Lufuno was allegedly stabbed to death in an open field in Ennerdale Extension 9 while on his way home. The incident, reportedly involving a fellow learner, is yet another devastating reminder of the levels of violence that continue to affect young people both within and beyond school environments.

Lufuno was not only a learner. He was also an active member of the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation’s Lehae Youth Club, where he participated in programmes focused on leadership, social justice, and building safer, more inclusive communities. His loss is deeply felt by his family, the Foundation, his peers, and the community of Lehae.

This tragedy reflects a recurring and deeply troubling pattern. On 12 March 2026, a 16-year-old Grade 9 learner from Badirile Secondary School in Khutsong, Carletonville, died after being stabbed by another learner on school premises.

In a separate incident on 20 March 2026, a 17-year-old Grade 8 learner from Forest High School was severely beaten and stabbed near the school after classes, later succumbing to his injuries.

These incidents, together with Lufuno’s killing, point to a pattern of violence affecting learners both within and beyond school grounds.

The Foundation calls on the relevant authorities to:

• See the ongoing investigation through without delay and to hold those responsible accountable.
• Strengthen safety measures in and around schools, particularly in high-risk areas
• Provide psychosocial support to Lufuno’s family and to affected learners, educators, and communities
• Address the root causes of youth violence, including social conditions, lack of support systems, and exposure to violence in communities

We also call on all sectors of society to recognise that this is not an isolated incident. The safety of young people cannot be treated as an afterthought.

Lufuno’s life was cut short in an act of senseless violence. His death must not become another statistic.

The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation extends its deepest condolences to Lufuno’s family, friends, and all who knew him. We stand in solidarity with them in their call for justice.

ENDS

For media inquiries, please contact:

Anele Gcwabe

Communications Manager

Ahmed Kathrada Foundation

083-278-8832

anele@kathradafoundation.org