IN CONVERSATION WITH BISHOP MATHEBULA
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The Department of Education in North West has launched a full investigation into the tragic death of an 8-year-old learner from GJ Podile Primary School in Mahikeng.
According to initial reports, the young girl and her 10-year-old sister allegedly purchased snacks from a hawker near their school in Ramosadi village. After arriving at school, both children reportedly complained of severe stomach cramps. They were rushed to a local clinic, where the younger sibling was declared dead. Her older sister remains in intensive care.
The grieving family, whose identities are withheld to protect the surviving child, has raised serious concerns about how the incident was handled.
“We believe our daughter died at school and remained there for nearly two hours before any action was taken. We were not informed that the children were sick, or that one had passed away. No ambulance was called, and we only learned of the tragedy much later. It’s devastating, and we have many unanswered questions,” said a family representative.
In response, Department of Education spokesperson Mphata Molokwane disputed claims of negligence, stating that school staff acted promptly.
“It’s not true that the school failed to respond. Teachers attempted to contact the parents multiple times. When they couldn’t reach them and the ambulance was delayed, a teacher used her personal vehicle to transport both learners to the clinic,” said Molokwane.
He also confirmed the department is investigating additional allegations, including claims that one of the children was forced to clean up vomit during the incident.
“We are treating this matter with the seriousness it deserves and will thoroughly investigate all claims,” Molokwane added.
According to initial reports, the young girl and her 10-year-old sister allegedly purchased snacks from a hawker near their school in Ramosadi village. After arriving at school, both children reportedly complained of severe stomach cramps. They were rushed to a local clinic, where the younger sibling was declared dead. Her older sister remains in intensive care.
The grieving family, whose identities are withheld to protect the surviving child, has raised serious concerns about how the incident was handled.
“We believe our daughter died at school and remained there for nearly two hours before any action was taken. We were not informed that the children were sick, or that one had passed away. No ambulance was called, and we only learned of the tragedy much later. It’s devastating, and we have many unanswered questions,” said a family representative.
In response, Department of Education spokesperson Mphata Molokwane disputed claims of negligence, stating that school staff acted promptly.
“It’s not true that the school failed to respond. Teachers attempted to contact the parents multiple times. When they couldn’t reach them and the ambulance was delayed, a teacher used her personal vehicle to transport both learners to the clinic,” said Molokwane.
He also confirmed the department is investigating additional allegations, including claims that one of the children was forced to clean up vomit during the incident.
“We are treating this matter with the seriousness it deserves and will thoroughly investigate all claims,” Molokwane added.