School bags vs body bags: GDE accedes Parktown parents frustrated with lack of information

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has acceded that parents at Parktown Boys are frustrated over a lack of information as to what led to the death of a 13-year-old pupil from the school, Enoch Mpianzi during a school orientation camps. 

The GDE's Steve Mabona was commenting after a meeting between the school and parents, where some parents say they expect their children to leave school with school bags and not in body bags. 

"Some parents will not be satisfied," said Mabona after the parents' meeting, adding: "The answers are not there."

Mabona explained that a law firm appointed to investigate the incident that led to Mpianzi 's death - as well as the death of Keamohetswe Seboko at Laerskool Bekker in another drowning incident - would start interacting with pupils on Tuesday as classes at the school resume. 

Mabona said that an investigation of this sensitive nature could not be rushed. 

"Parents need answers," acceded Mabona. "In both cases, there are so many questions that need to be attended to." 

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Mabona acknowledged a planned silent protest at the school by community members but asked that schooling not be disrupted. 

Pupils would be offered counselling by the school, and the GDE asked that parents keep a close eye on their children's behaviour in light of the events that unfolded.