10/10/2026
Pinetown school mourns Grade 9 learner, Lamla Tenza
Xolile Mtembu
The death of Pinetown Girls’ High School learner Lamla Tenza has left a school community and those who knew her heartbroken, with tributes remembering the Grade 9 pupil as a "bubbly, friendly young girl with a free spirit."
Among those deeply affected by the news is Nokuthula Precious, who said she was overcome with emotion when her daughter told her about Lamla’s passing.
“I literally cried when my daughter shared the news yesterday; may her soul rest in eternal peace,” Precious said.
Her reaction reflects the sadness surrounding the loss of a young learner whose death has prompted messages of sympathy and condolences for her grieving family.
Nompumelelo Zuma also expressed her heartbreak, remembering Tenza for her warm personality and the spirit she brought to those around her.
“My heart broke into pieces when heard about Lamla's passing. A bubbly and friendly young lady with a free spirit,” Zuma said.
Zuma extended her condolences to Tenza’s family, wishing them comfort as they navigate the difficult days ahead.
Pinetown Girls’ High School announced Tenza’s passing in a message to its school community, expressing profound sadness and offering condolences to her family, friends, classmates and teachers.
“It is with profound sadness that we inform our school community of the passing of one of our Grade 9 learners, Lamla Tenza,” the school said.
The school has encouraged learners to support one another with kindness and compassion as they process the loss. It has also confirmed that support will be available to learners and staff members who need assistance dealing with their grief.
The school has asked the wider community to respect the family’s privacy as they mourn their loss.
IOL