The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has confirmed that 13 learners lost their lives in a devastating scholar transport accident that occurred on Monday morning in Vanderbijlpark.
According to the department, the crash happened at approximately 07:00 on Fred Droste Road when a private scholar transport vehicle collided with a side tipper truck. Eleven learners were declared dead at the scene, while another learner later succumbed to injuries in hospital. Three other learners sustained critical injuries and are currently receiving urgent medical care at local hospitals.
The driver of the scholar transport vehicle was also injured and has been hospitalised. At this stage, details regarding the condition of the truck driver remain unclear. Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene, while police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane said he was deeply devastated by the tragic loss of young lives. He, together with Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, visited the accident scene to assess the situation, engage with emergency personnel and offer support to the affected families and school communities.
“This is a tragic day for the department and the province. We extend our deepest condolences to the learners, families and school communities affected by this heartbreaking incident,” said Chiloane. He further called for increased vigilance and stricter safety measures in scholar transport services, particularly within the private transport sector.
The Gauteng Department of Education has assured the public that it will work closely with law enforcement and relevant authorities as investigations continue, while also providing psychosocial support to affected learners, families and educators.
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