Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
11 July 2024 | 16:29 CAT

The driver and 11 children died when their school transport got into an accident in Carletonville on Wednesday morning. Image: TimesLIVE

This morning, Gauteng was struck by a tragic accident that claimed the lives of twelve students and a driver. The accident, which involved 11 students from Rocklands Primary School and one student from Laerskool Blyvooruitsig in Carletonville, has deeply affected our community.

Steve Mabona, the Gauteng education spokesperson, announced that a tragic accident resulted in the deaths of 11 students from Rocklands Primary School, one student from Laerskool Blyvooruitsig in Carletonville, and their driver.

Mabona mentioned that the department received a troubling report from officials in the morning stating that a private scholar transport minibus was involved in minibus a tragic accident in the Kokosi-Wedela area in Merafong.

Many schoolkids in Gauteng, South Africa’s most densely populated province, depend on private minibuses for transportation to and from their schools. Several people also depend on public transportation, such as city buses and cabs.

Mabona assured that the department has already dispatched a dedicated psychosocial support team to the school. This team will provide immediate assistance and work closely with the school and affected families, ensuring that they receive the support they need during this difficult time.

Counselling services will be offered to all students and faculty members to assist them in dealing with the emotional impact of this tragedy.

Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane expressed deep sorrow over the 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 pupils. We wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and both schools’ entire communities during this incredibly difficult time. We also wish all injured pupils a speedy recovery.”

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round Up with Moulana Junaid Kharsany and Steve Mabona here.