Tragedy strikes at Alberton Marking Centre: Marker dies after falling
The 50-year-old's untimely death has shocked her family and colleagues, leaving many questions unanswered about the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Julia Jonas, a 50-year-old National Senior Certificate (NSC) matric examination paper marker, passed away on December 3, following a tragic incident at the Alberton Marking Centre.
According to the Department of Education’s statement, Julia allegedly tripped and hit her head against a pole while leaving the marking centre. However, the details surrounding her death have sparked confusion and concern among her family.
Family’s account of the incident and medical response
Her brother-in-law, Zwelekhaya Gunya, shared with the Alberton Record that Julia fell on the stairs and struck a pole, resulting in a severe head injury.
“Her friend, who is also a marker at the centre, told us that Julia had left to go to the toilet. They later found her lying unconscious on the floor,” Gunya explained.
The staff immediately called an ambulance, and Julia was rushed to Netcare Alberton Hospital. Upon arriving at the hospital, doctors managed to briefly regain Julia’s consciousness. She complained of a sore stomach but tragically passed away just two minutes later.
Gunya noted that her family remains uncertain about the full details, as no one witnessed the fall.
Concerns raised by the family over the department’s statement
The family has raised concerns about the Department’s public statement, which suggested that Julia fell while leaving the marking centre. “Nobody saw anything. The statement suggesting she fell while leaving the centre implies they are trying to avoid responsibility for the injury on duty,” Gunya said.
He added that Julia went to relieve herself after the marking session had ended. “This does not change the fact that she got injured on the premises,” said Gunya.
Gunya also mentioned that Julia was found with blood coming from her mouth, and doctors at the hospital suspected that internal bleeding could have contributed to her death.
“It is the post-mortem that will tell us the real cause of Julia’s death,” he added.
Department of Education responds to the tragedy
In response to the tragic incident, the Department of Education arranged for the Psycho-Social Support Unit to visit the Alberton Marking Centre on December 4, offering emotional support to affected markers.
MEC Chiloane Matome extended condolences, stating: “Her commitment to the education sector was invaluable, and her untimely passing is a profound loss to all of us.”
Impact of Julia Jonas’ death on her family and community
The family expressed their shock at the Department’s statement, as they were not consulted beforehand. “They didn’t call to inform us about the incident. We were shocked to see a statement issued by them.
“I received a phone call from one of Julia’s colleagues, telling me that Julia had been injured and she was rushed to hospital. We had to leave Welkom and rush to the hospital,” said Gunya.
The family got to the hospital around midnight on Tuesday.
Gunya revealed that the Department of Education’s Human Resources Department contacted them on December 4 and a meeting has been scheduled for December 6 to discuss Julia’s funeral cover.
Julia’s death has placed an emotional burden on her family, especially her children, who depended on her financially. Gunya noted, “Her siblings will have to support her children, but it’s difficult for us too, as we all have our own responsibilities.”
Julia’s career and contributions to education
Julia, who began her teaching career in 1995 in Willowvale, Eastern Cape, had been working in the region until 2021 when she relocated to Gauteng and moved to Dobsonville, Soweto.
She worked as a teacher at George Khoza Secondary School in Soweto, where she was highly respected for her dedication to education. Julia left behind three children and one grandchild, whom she supported financially.
Julia Jonas’ legacy and family’s future after her passing
At the time of her death, Julia was in the process of finalising the purchase of a house for herself and her children.
“She was just waiting for the transfer to go through, and everything else had been finalised,” Gunya said.
Julia’s passing has left a significant void, both in her family’s lives and in the community that relied on her unwavering dedication to education.
Funeral arrangements and final farewell in Willowvale
Julia’s funeral will take place in Willowvale, Eastern Cape, on December 14, where she will be laid to rest.
Her family and colleagues are mourning the loss of a woman who devoted her life to teaching and providing for her loved ones.
Alberton Record sent an email to the Department of Education enquiring about the allegations that she got injured while on duty but hasn’t received an official response.
