The Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, has expressed her condolences to the families of the 12 learners who lost their lives earlier today 10 July 2024 in a car accident.
The Rocklands Primary School and Laerskool Blyvooruitsig learners’ minibus transport was involved in a tragic accident in the Kokosi-Wedela area in Merafong, after it was allegedly hit by a van causing it to overturn and catch fire. The driver also passed away in the crash.
“The loss of loved ones is never easy; the loss is markedly acute when it is our children that we have to bury. We offer our heartfelt sympathies to the parents of the children; we will keep you in our thoughts and prayers, hoping that healing and grace locate you. We also wish the learners who were hurt in the accident a full and speedy recovery,” said Gwarube.
Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi said that the department will provide all the necessary support to the families. Lesufi added that seven learners are discharged from hospital and only one is still admitted.
“We have improved our scholar transport. If you check the number of private scholar transport from townships and how we have regulated them, we have managed to make sure that the system is accountable and can be traced and they can go through vetting processes within the school,” Lesufi said.
Meanwhile Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture & Recreation, Matome Chiloane said that he is concerned and saddened by the tragic incident.
“I am profoundly saddened by this tragic event. The loss of our children is a devastating blow to our community, and our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased and injured learners. We wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and both schools’ entire community during this incredibly difficult time. We also wish all injured learners a speedy recovery,” said Chiloane.