Milton Neo Mokgoatsane
Image: FACEBOOK
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane has appointed a law firm to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of 10-year-old Milton Mokgoatsane, who was killed when a goalpost fell on him at Reagile Primary School in Tembisa on February 16.
Paramedics declared the Grade 5 pupil dead at the scene.
According to Gauteng Education Department spokesperson Steve Mabona, the MEC will formally introduce the appointed law firm to the school on Wednesday and outline the terms of reference guiding the independent investigation, including its scope and focus.
Family spokesperson, Thomas Ndobe, meanwhile, previously said the family was saddened by the tragic incident.
Ndobe was awaiting a detailed report from the independent law firm appointed to look into the matter.
This tragedy follows a similar case on February 2, when five-year-old Manqoba Mnisi, a Grade R learner at Bernard Isaacs Primary School in Coronationville, sustained injuries at school and later died in hospital. Manqoba’s mother has raised concerns that he may have been locked inside a classroom before becoming trapped in a window.
The Gauteng Department of Education has said it is also investigating another recent incident in which a learner died in a classroom, highlighting the need for schools across the province to review safety protocols and supervision practices.
In an unrelated incident, a grade three Eastern Cape pupil died by suicide, reportedly due to bullying.
Parliament's education portfolio committee chair Makhi Feni said: “It is not normal that a learner as young will commit this kind of act.
"We are therefore calling for a thorough investigation into this incident.
"Bullying is a challenge in our schools that educators should never be tired of fighting."
IOL