MEDIA STATEMENT

MEC LEHARI CONVEYS HIS CONDOLENCES TO THE MAFORA FAMILY

The North West Education and Sport Development MEC, Sello Lehari was shocked and saddened to learn about the untimely death of Odirile Mafora (9 years) a Grade 5 learner at Kgalagatsane Primary School situated at Reagile Township near Koster town.

It is alleged that a 17 year old boy who is doing Grade 7 on Friday, 10 May 2019, during the break kicked and clapped Odirile Mafora on the head, wherein he sustained serious bodily injuries. Odirile was admitted at the local hospital, where he died on Friday, 17 May 2019.

The North West Education and Sport Development MEC, Sello Lehari conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the Mafora family and the Kgalagatsane Primary school.

“On behalf of the department I take this time to convey our sincerest condolences to the Mafora family and the entire school community of Kgalagatsane Primary school. This is an unfortunate incident that has happened at Kgalagatsane and as a department we have never expected such to happen to our learners. Last week we lost two learners who perished in a fatal bus accident at Groot Marico and other sustained minor injuries”, said MEC Lehari.

MEC Lehari emphasized that, as a department they are strongly opposed to any form of bullying taking place in schools. He further encouraged learners across the province, to report any form of bullying to their teachers and principals.

The school management reported the matter to the local police station and the 17 year old boy was arrested by the police.

The department has arranged counselling for the learners, teachers and parents of the both learners. The details of the memorial service and the funeral will be communicated in due course.

End.

Issued by Media Liaison Unit
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Mr Freddy Sepeng
Media Liaison Manager
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