Shock and concern have gripped the area of Rubirizi District in western Uganda following the death of a student from St. Thomas Vocational Secondary School, identified as Sheilla Ankunda, amid allegations that she took her own life after being disciplined by a teacher over a love letter.
According to initial reports from the school community, the student was allegedly found with a letter believed to be linked to a romantic relationship. She was subsequently disciplined by a teacher whose identity has not been disclosed and reportedly informed that she would appear before the school disciplinary committee.
Shortly after the incident, Sheilla returned to the girls’ dormitory, where she was later found dead. Unconfirmed reports suggest she may have hanged herself, though authorities have not verified this.
As of now, neither the police nor local authorities in the Greater Bushenyi Police Region have issued an official statement confirming the cause of death or announcing a formal investigation timeline.
School administration, through Headteacher Father Charles Niwagaba, declined to give detailed comments, stating they were dealing with “Please give us some time, we are dealing with a lot of things right now.”
The incident has sparked widespread debate on social media, with many calling for an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the student’s death, particularly regarding disciplinary practices in schools.
Education stakeholders and child rights advocates have reiterated the need for non-violent disciplinary approaches in schools, warning that harsh punishment methods may have serious psychological consequences for learners.
Authorities are expected to release further details as investigations continue.
In additional report, student arrested in Rwanda over teacher assault. In Burera District, police arrested seven students from GS Runaba over allegations of assaulting three teachers.
Police spokesperson CIP Ignace Ngirabakunzi confirmed the arrests, stating that investigations are ongoing. The students, aged between 15 and 18, are accused of attacking teachers identified as Nshimiyimana Michel (33), Nkundineza Jean Marie Vianney (45), and Bucyayungura Jean Baptiste (35).
Following their arrest, local authorities and police engaged students in awareness sessions emphasizing discipline, respect for teachers, and adherence to school regulations.
The students reportedly admitted wrongdoing and expressed willingness to change their behavior.
Separately, two students from GS Butandi were also detained after allegedly injuring teacher Habonimana Jean Bonaparte (38) during a dispute related to student meal arrangements.
The injured teacher was taken for medical treatment at Gashanje Health Center while investigations continue.
