MEC for Education in the North West, Viola Motsumi is deeply saddened by an accident involving a learner transport vehicle on Tuesday, 06 February 2024.

The transport carrying 51 students from Gaetsho and J.M. Lekhetha schools veered off the road, resulting in 23 learners requiring hospital treatment (19 from Gaetsho Secondary School and 4 from J.M. Lekhetha High School).

As of today, Wednesday, 07 February 2024, only one learner from Gaetsho Secondary remain under medical supervision at Bophelong Provincial Hospital in Mafikeng and a few others at General Delarey Hospital in Lichtenburg.

Motsumi led a delegation of officials to both hospitals to monitor the progress offer support to the families and learners affected by this tragedy.

“We are committed to providing the necessary medical care and counselling services to all those involved. We urge the school community to remain united and supportive during this difficult time”, Motsumi expressed.

“The safety and well-being of our learners is our top priority. We are working closely with the relevant authorities to investigate the cause of this accident and ensure the implementation of necessary measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

“ We are committed to providing the necessary medical care and counselling services to all those involved. We urge the school community to remain united and supportive during this difficult time”, Motsumi expressed.

The Department will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as they become available.
Motsumi further extends her gratitude to the Department of Health for swift response.

For more information please contact:
Mphata Molokwane
Departmental Spokesperson
Cell: 082 979 3638
Or
Elias Malindi
Acting Head of Communication
Cell: 0728928399