The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has confirmed the death of a Grade 12 girl learner from Schaumburg Combined School, who succumbed to her injuries on Sunday, November 23.
The learner was one of four pupils struck by a scholar transport bus during a chaotic incident at the school in Hartbeespoort on Thursday, November 20.
According to GDE spokesperson Steve Mabona, the tragedy unfolded after an outbreak of disorder on the school premises, which ultimately led to the fatal accident.
“Reports indicate that the intruders started a fight with Grade 12 learners who were on their way home after completing their exams. As the confrontation intensified, learners from lower grades joined in, creating further disorder,” Mabona said.
Mobona revealed that educators attempted to intervene and guide learners toward their buses, but the situation deteriorated in the loading area. Some learners allegedly tried to forcefully take control of buses. A frightened bus driver sped off to escape the chaos, striking three Grade 12 learners and one Grade 10 learner.
Emergency services were called immediately, and the injured pupils were rushed to hospital. One of the matric learners was later transferred to a hospital in Ga-Rankuwa, where she passed away on Sunday November 23.
Mabona added that police have since launched an investigation into the incident, while the GDE has deployed district officials and psychosocial support teams to the school to assist learners, teachers, and affected families.
Gauteng MEC for Education Matome Chiloane conveyed his condolences to the family and school community.
“The Department conveys its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, friends, classmates, and the entire school community for their loss. It is saddening that such a chaotic outburst led to the unfortunate passing of a learner who had completed his exams. We condemn the scrupulous individuals who instigated this unfortunate event,” he said.
The Star