Basic Education (DBE) Minister Angie Motshekga has called for investigations into the circumstances surrounding the death of the learners, Enoch Mpianzi and Keamohetswe Seboko.
Mpianzi, a Parktown Boys’ High learner, allegedly drowned during a river rafting exercise on a school orientation camp on Wednesday in Brits, North West.
Keamohetswe was found dead at Laerskool Bekker’s Hostel Swimming pool in Magaliesburg.
Motshekga said the circumstances surrounding the death of the learners must be thoroughly investigated in order to avoid similar occurrences in the future.
“We also appeal for patience and urge members of the public to refrain from speculating, as we await the outcome of the investigations into the drowning of Enoch Mpianzi and Keamohetswe Seboko. Our prayers are with the families of the deceased learners,” the Minister said Monday.
The education minister also seconded a team from the DBE’s school safety unit to help with the investigations.
“The team will also assist in ensuring that the affected families are supported in these difficult times,” she said.
Motshekga expressed her condolences to the families and school communities of the deceased learners and that of the principal who was shot dead last week.
Motshekga also strongly condemned the torching of schools and theft of school property.
“We have full confidence that law enforcement agencies will find and bring to book, those responsible for damages to school infrastructure.
We urge communities to take back control of schools by safeguarding educational facilities and reporting any suspicious activity at the nearest police station.”