A 46-year-old teacher from Maguya Day Secondary School in Chipata District, Zambia, has ended his life, leaving behind a poignant note detailing his final wishes regarding the distribution of his money.
The incident brings to the forefront the emotional and mental toll that unacknowledged hard work and lack of progress can have on individuals.
The incident occurred on Wednesday at Mwami turn off. The teacher, identified as Panford Mweetwa, was recently transferred from Nsanjika Day Secondary School to Maguya Day Secondary School.
Mweetwa reportedly communicated to his wife that he was heading to Chipata town to arrange transport for relocating his family from Mwami border to Maguya Day Secondary School. However, events took a tragic turn around 10 AM when he was found in distress and rushed to Katandala Clinic for immediate treatment. Subsequently, he was referred to Chipata Central Hospital for further medical attention.
While receiving treatment, Mweetwa, who remained conscious and communicative, revealed that he had ingested an unknown substance with the intention of ending his life.
Despite medical efforts, he succumbed to the effects of the substance on the same day. In his final note, Mr. Mweetwa expressed his deep sense of frustration and despair, stating that despite his relentless efforts and hard work, he felt he had achieved nothing significant.
The note also contained specific instructions on how he wished for his money to be distributed, indicating a premeditated decision and a desire to provide for his loved ones even in his absence.
Eastern Province Police Deputy Commanding Officer, Stephen Mayoko, confirmed the incident to the media. He clarified that there is no suspicion of foul play involved in Mr. Mweetwa’s death. The body is currently being held at the mortuary, awaiting burial arrangements.
This incident has left the community and Mweetwa’s colleagues in deep shock and mourning. It highlights the critical importance of mental health support and the need for recognition and appreciation of the efforts made by educators and other professionals.
