Death on the playing fields in Gauteng: Learner dies on school play ground

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) is deeply saddened by the passing away of a Grade R learner from Welomlambo Primary School in Tembisa.

The learner sustained injuries while playing with other learners in the school’s playground.  Emergency personnel were called to the school but, sadly, the learner was declared dead on the scene.

Officials from the department have been called to the school to provide necessary support and counselling to educators and learners.  Counselling will also be extended to the family of the learner.

Panyaza Lesufi, the MEC for education in Gauteng, expressed shock at this incident and sent his heartfelt condolences to the family of the learner and the entire school community of school.  “It is indeed a very sad day for us," Lesufi said, "to hear about the passing on of a young learner, whose future looked bright and showed promises of a better life for his family, community and the country at large.  No words are sufficient enough to express our sorrow.  We wish the family of the learner peace and comfort during this difficult time and hope that they find solace in the knowledge that we too share their loss,” he added.