Parliament shocked by the increase in learner deaths in Gauteng
Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education, Joy Maimela, has expressed her shock following the deaths of several learners in Gauteng on Tuesday.
“This is indeed incredibly sad such young lives, dying so tragically. They will now never reach their full potential. The youth is the future, but South Africa will now never benefit from these young people", said Maimela.
She was reacting to the deaths of three Gauteng siblings on Monday morning, shortly after they ate breakfast at home.
They collapsed at the Evaton Primary School in Sebokeng.
In Ekurhuleni, a Grade 8 learner from the Tsakane Secondary School died on Monday after she allegedly consumed rat poison.
In August last year, two girls passed away after ingesting poison at the same school.
Maimela has appealed to learners to seek counselling.
“We want to appeal to all learners to seek help if they feel overwhelmed. Schools normally have support systems in place and learners should make use of this.”
She further urged parents and caregivers to be vigilant, especially during examination periods with the nearing Grade 12 preliminary and final examinations.
Maimela called for a favourable atmosphere of study for learners at this time.
“Furthermore, we appeal to the police for swift investigations and to ensure that they leave no stone unturned.”
The committee also noted several road accidents in recent weeks where learners lost their lives.
Maimela appealed to the providers of scholar transport, and public transport owners to screen drivers before hiring them to ensure they are trustworthy for transporting learners.
“Sadly, we are losing too many learners on our roads.
“We want to convey our sincerest condolences to all the families, friends and school communities at large that have been affected by these tragedies.”
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