The North West Department of Education is saddened by the death of two Grade R learners aged 6 and 7 years from Bloemhof Primary School who died when their private combi lost control on top of the bridge as they were crossing the Bloemhof dam on Wednesday, 01 June 2022 in the morning.

It is alleged that the combi which was transporting 26 learners from Hoopstad in the Free State province to Bloemhof Primary school in the North West province, lost control on top of the bridge and severely hit the embankment. Two (2) learners died instantly, whilst other eight learners sustained serious injuries. Other learners who did not sustain injuries were observed and released at Bloemhof hospital.

It is further reported that these two towns of Hooppstad and Bloemhof are 40 kilometers apart and are separated by a bridge crossing the Bloemhof dam. The local communities from time to time uses the bridge to visit relatives across.

The MEC for Education, Mmaphefo Matsemela conveyed her condolences to the bereaved families.

“As a department we are extremely devastated by the accident which took two of our learners. I wish to convey our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.

“I wish a speedy recovery to those who are still in hospital. This is a third accident within a space of a week. I would like to send a strong message to all operators transporting learners to school to be extra careful at all times whenever they are transporting learners in order to save lives”, said MEC Matsemela.

Trauma debriefing and counseling were immediately administered to teachers and learners at school.

The department confirmed that counseling will continue again on Thursday, 02 June 2022 by Departmental wellness team.

MEC Matsemela is expected to visit Bloemhof Primary School and the accident scene tomorrow on Thursday, 02 June 2022.

 

For more information please contact:
Elias Malindi
Departmental Spokesperson
Cell: 072 892 8399