Niyaaz Smith, Spine Road High School Student, Passes Away Tragically, Sparking Grief and Calls for Mental Health Awareness
Cape Town, South Africa – The community of Spine Road High School is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Niyaaz Smith, a cherished student whose death has left family, friends, and classmates devastated.
Niyaaz, known for his kind nature and vibrant personality, tragically passed away on February 20, 2025. His untimely death has sparked a wave of grief and concern over mental health challenges faced by young people, especially in school environments.
Social media posts have reflected the deep sorrow and sadness surrounding his passing. One post from Randall Alfred Scott read, "Yoh hectic," expressing the shock that has reverberated through his peers. Salma Fredericks shared her grief, stating, "This is very very sad."
The circumstances of Niyaaz’s passing are still under investigation, but his death has raised important discussions about the need for stronger mental health support within schools. His classmates and educators have called for greater awareness and systems to ensure that young individuals are supported during emotional struggles.
In a tribute, a spokesperson for the school said, "Our thoughts and prayers are with Niyaaz’s family and friends. We are committed to providing the necessary support for all our students during this difficult time."
As the community mourns, friends and family are coming together to honor his memory and provide comfort to one another. Memorial arrangements for Niyaaz are being planned, and further updates will be shared in the coming days.