"So Painful": Wynberg Girls High Mourns Grade 11 Learner After Battling Illness

• Wynberg Girls' High School announced the passing of Grade 11 learner Neema Parusia Muhigirwa, who died on 3 August 2026, aged 18
• The school honoured Neema earlier this year with the Class of 1952 Honour Plate for her tenacity and courage in the face of adversity
• Fellow parents and community members shared heartfelt tributes for the young learner, describing her warmth and kindness

Wynberg Girls' High School in Cape Town announced the passing of one of its Grade 11 learners, Neema Parusia Muhigirwa, on 7 August 2026. She was 18 years old, born on 16 November 2007, and died on 3 August 2026 after facing significant health challenges over the years. The school described Neema as someone who met her difficulties with extraordinary courage and a spirit that never wavered.

Earlier in 2026, Wynberg Girls' High awarded Neema the Class of 1952 Honour Plate, a recognition reserved for learners who embody the school's motto, "Honour Before Honours." The award was given in acknowledgement of her tenacity in the face of adversity. Neema later shared that receiving it had been one of the happiest moments of her life. In its tribute, the school said that while her time with them was far too short, her courage, warmth and strength would remain part of the Wynberg story. Read the school's tribute to Neema on their official Facebook page below:

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Community honours Wynberg High School learner

The announcement drew an outpouring of grief from parents, community members and those who had known Neema personally:

Nomsa Sibanyoni wrote:

"This is the child who embraced my daughter on her first day at Wynberg Girls High, greeted her with a smile, gave her the warmest hug, shared notes with my daughter and always assisted each other with Accounting. Rest in the bosom of Abraham Neema 🕊🤍🌼"

Irene Phiri Musunte shared:

"I was saddened when I received the message from my daughter that Neema passed away. However, one thing my daughter Tamara said comforted me. She said Neema loved Jesus and so I believe she is resting in eternal peace in the presence of God. May God comfort her family and her Wynberg Girls community 🙏🏻"

Terence Smith said:

"Neema's strength and courage will never be forgotten. May her memory inspire us to live each day with love and kindness ❤"

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Roland Jackson noted:

"I have never ever seen so many young learners pass away like I saw this year so far. May her beautiful soul RiP"

Helen Ogle wrote:

"Rest in peace baby girl 💔"

Naomi Sookhia said:

"This is so painful. May your soul be blessed, beautiful Baba"

Liza De Oliveira added:

"Another beautiful child gone. What is happening. May she RIP and condolences to all that knew her 😢"

Angie Poggenpoel wrote:

"Rest peacefully Neema 💔🙏"

Other Briefly News stories about learners

• The passing of former learner Qa-eed Lodewyk, a beloved member of the Kenmere Primary School community in Cape Town, evoked an outpouring of love and condolences.
• Details about the heartfelt memorial held at Strandfontein High School for late learner Liyanda Ciko, who passed away, moved South Africans.
• The passing of Dante van Aswegen, a promising young student from Hoërskool Brits who recently completed his final year as part of the Matric Class of 2025.

Source: Briefly News