Gauteng Community Devastated by School Bus Crash That Claims 13 Lives
Image Source: Officials at the site of multi-car collision in the Kokosi-Wedela area in Merafong on 10 July 2024, in which 13 people were killed. Picture: Mongezi Koko/EWN
Published by Everything ZA News
CARLETONVILLE, South Africa – A horrific school bus crash in Gauteng province on Wednesday morning has left a community reeling after 12 learners and their driver were killed.
The learners, 11 from Rocklands Primary School and one from Laerskool Blyvooruitsig in Carletonville, were on their way to school when their bus was allegedly struck from behind by a bakkie (pickup truck) in the Kokosi-Wedela area. The collision caused the bus to overturn and catch fire.
“This is a devastating blow to our community,” said Matome Chiloane, the MEC (Member of the Executive Council) for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased and injured learners.”
Seven other learners were rushed to medical facilities for urgent treatment. The cause of the accident is still under investigation by police.
The Gauteng Department of Education has dispatched its psycho-social support team to both schools to provide counseling and support to learners and staff members struggling to cope with the tragedy. “We will work closely with the schools and affected families to ensure they have the resources they need during this difficult time,” Chiloane added.
MEC Chiloane is expected to visit the accident scene and both schools on Wednesday.
This tragedy highlights the importance of safe transportation for learners. The department has urged parents to ensure that their children are transported in properly licensed and maintained vehicles.
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