A Grade 12 learner at Simataa Secondary School in the Zambezi Region, Matengu Lubasi, remains bedridden after an alleged assault by fellow learner Sinyama Simataa over an unpaid loan of N$20. The incident occurred on 23 March in the school’s hostel dormitories.

Lubasi recounted that Simataa entered his room with three others. “He slapped me, held me by the neck while he continued beating me. During that time I had my eyes closed, so I don't know or remember what else happened, but I remember waking up in my dormitory,” he said.

A teacher on duty found Lubasi unable to speak and lying in bed. He was taken to a clinic and later transferred to Katima Mulilo Hospital. Though no fractures were found, doctors warned of possible spinal complications requiring surgery if his condition does not improve. Lubasi has missed school for three weeks and remains mostly confined to bed.

Lubasi expressed fear for his safety: “He said that should the matter reach his mother, he would come back and show me, and I don't know what he meant. I am also scared that should I go back to school, maybe he will beat me up again or kill me.”

His mother, Julietar Tshaka, criticized the school for negligence, saying: “The school was negligent over my child because firstly, they failed to report the incident to the police the very day it took place. I have this fear and feel scared that it might happen to another learner, that the school did not show care and love towards my child. Since he came from the school three weeks ago, no teacher has come to see him.”

Simataa was arrested and released on bail and has since returned to school. Zambezi Education Director Alex Sikume confirmed the incident and said investigations are ongoing to determine any supervisory negligence and the appropriate course of action.