Story by Lisa Masuku-Kurira
THE death of a 16-year-old girl from Nguboyenja, Bulawayo, after reportedly committing suicide following the release of the Ordinary Level examination results has renewed calls for stronger psychosocial support systems within families, schools and communities.
Her passing has left the community in shock and has prompted wider reflection on the pressure faced by young people during critical academic milestones.
Despite failing her examinations, residents say the girl possessed practical skills beyond the classroom, particularly in hairdressing, which she had begun pursuing informally. One community member, Ms Faith Phiri, said the teenager had shown visible anxiety while awaiting her results.
“Her grandmother introduced her to me and asked me to look for clients for her. On the day in question she was restless she kept checking her phone and I asked her why she was doing that she said she wanted to check her O level examination results,” Ms Phiri said, noting that the girl had already begun building a small client base through community referrals.
Community members said the incident highlights the need for broader conversations around success, failure and alternative career pathways.
“This is painful, as parents we have a huge role to play. We have to be teaching them that failing your academic studies does not mean the end of the road.
“Failing her exams was not the end of the world since she was good at hairdressing she should have pursued a career in that,” residents added.
Education officials have also weighed in, urging parents and guardians to prioritise emotional support and open communication, particularly during examination periods.
Bulawayo Provincial Education Director, Mr Bernard Mazambane, said limited parent-child engagement can leave young people vulnerable during moments of disappointment or uncertainty.
“Parents have very little time with their children that is why they end up taking their own lives. Parents have a big role in promoting the psychosocial well-being of their kids.”
The incident has brought renewed attention to the social and emotional pressures confronting adolescents, underscoring the need for coordinated support structures involving families, schools, faith-based organisations and community leaders.
Authorities and education stakeholders continue to emphasise that early intervention, mentorship and counselling are essential in helping young people navigate academic challenges and personal setbacks safely.
