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What is happening?
The Eastern Cape Department of Education has confirmed that three female teachers were shot and killed at Ntabankulu Primary School on Friday, 23 January 2026. The shooter, identified as Mr Gcaba — a former employee of the school — later turned the weapon on himself.
The tragedy has drawn national attention, prompting a visit from Eastern Cape Education MEC Fundile Gade, local mayors, and district education officials on 26 January 2026.
Why it matters to you
Parents, learners, and school staff across Alfred Nzo and the Eastern Cape are deeply affected by the violence. Education officials say this is not an isolated case — and they’re warning that schools need more than just physical security to be safe.
Ntabankulu is one of several rural Eastern Cape communities where social issues, trauma, and under-resourced schools intersect. Understanding what government is doing — and what it means for your child’s safety — is essential for informed parenting and local advocacy.
What you need to know
According to statements from the Department of Education and local leaders, here are the key confirmed facts:
- The shooter was a former employee who entered a classroom around 12:00pm and opened fire on three teachers.
- Two teachers — Mrs Nkqayi and Mrs Nonkondlo — were killed inside the classroom.
- A third teacher, Mrs Matanzima, was shot outside.
- The shooter then took his own life.
- All three victims were women, and the incident has raised serious gender-based violence (GBV) concerns.
- MEC Fundile Gade visited the school and condemned the violence, calling for a focus on social and moral rebuilding, not just school infrastructure.
- Alfred Nzo District officials and municipal leaders are urging collaboration between communities and government.
| Authority | Key Message |
|---|---|
| MEC Fundile Gade | Violence in schools is a social problem, not just a security issue |
| District official Mr Mshwayi | Confirmed details of the incident and shooter’s employment history |
| Mayor Tsileng Sobuthongo | Called for recognition of systemic violence and community healing |
| Cllr. Eunice Diko | Linked the incident to rising gender-based violence, urged unity |
What you should do next
If you’re a parent, guardian, or school staff member in Alfred Nzo District or elsewhere in the Eastern Cape:
- Speak to your children about what happened using age-appropriate language.
- Report any threats or suspicious behaviour to school authorities or SAPS.
- Support local teachers who may be affected or traumatised.
- Join community dialogues or meetings when called — officials are asking for collective healing efforts.
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