By Thapelo Molefe
Authorities have launched an investigation into a devastating accident on the N12 in Daveyton, Ekurhuleni, which claimed the lives of four young learners and left four others injured on Monday morning.
The collision, which involved multiple vehicles near the Putfontein Road off-ramp, included a private scholar transport vehicle ferrying children to school.
The Gauteng education department confirmed that the victims were from Tom Newby Primary School, Rynfield Primary School, and an unidentified Early Childhood Development (ECD) centre.
Among the deceased are two siblings in Grade 1 and Grade 3 from Tom Newby Primary, a Grade 1 learner from Rynfield Primary, and a Grade R learner from the ECD centre.
A Grade 3 girl from Rynfield is in a critical condition in hospital.
Law enforcement agencies are working to determine the cause of the crash.
In response to the tragedy, the department has dispatched its Psycho-Social Support Unit to provide counselling to affected learners and teachers.
Gauteng education MEC Matome Chiloane expressed his sorrow over the fatal accident.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of these young learners whose lives were tragically cut short by this unfortunate incident. Our thoughts are with the bereaved families, friends and the school communities during this painful period. The department stands ready to provide the necessary support to all affected,” he said in a statement.
Gauteng roads and transport MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela also extended her condolences, urging road users to prioritise safety to prevent such tragedies.
“As a department, we continue to plead with drivers to be alert at all times, adhere to speed limits, exercise patience ensure vehicles are roadworthy, and, most importantly, make informed decisions that will save lives on our roads,” she said.
Diale-Tlabela further emphasised the importance of passenger awareness, stating that while drivers bore the primary responsibility, passengers must also remain vigilant about road safety.
INSIDE EDUCATION
