It has been a sad week for the family, friends, and the Gauteng Education Department after the death of Latoya Temilton.
The Grade 7 learner from Laerskool Queenswood drowned on Saturday, 20 January, while on a school leadership camp.
The Gauteng Education MEC, Matome Chiloane, has expressed his sadness about this tragic incident.
According to a statement sent out by the department, the school had gone on an approved one-day excursion to Wag ‘n Bietjie Resort in Witkoppen, Olifantsfontein. Reports allege that the learner unfortunately drowned during the excursion.
Police are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident and MEC Chiloane has recommended that an independent investigation be conducted.
“The process of appointing an independent law firm is underway. The law firm will be introduced to the School Management Team and the learner’s family subsequent to their appointment,” the statement said.
The school held a memorial service for the learner on Wednesday, 24 January 2024, to commemorate and honour her life. The district and members of the school have visited the learner’s family to convey their condolences
“We are devastated by this tragic loss. We convey our sincerest condolences to the bereaved family and school community at large. We are hopeful an independent investigation into this incident will assist to determine on what exactly occurred,” MEC Chiloane said.