18 learners were treated for injuries after the ceiling of a classroom at Umthambeka Primary School in Thembisa allegedly collapsed this morning.

According to information available approximately 18 Grade 6 learners, who were in class at the time of the incident, sustained injuries and were rushed to local medical facilities.

Spokesperson for the Gauteng Department of Education, Steve Mabona said two learners are still recovering at a local medical facility while others are recuperating at home.

“The cause of the incident is uncertain at this stage. As such, we have launched an investigation into circumstances surrounding this incident,” he said.

Mabona confirmed that information will be acquired from the School Management Team (SMT), School Governing Body (SGB) and the District accordingly.

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A Psycho-Social Support Team from the GDE will be dispatched to the school to conduct necessary counselling to those affected.

“We are indeed concerned by the occurrence of this incident and find it unfortunate that our children were injured in such a manner at school. We would like to wish all affected learners a speedy recovery.

“Furthermore, we call on SGB members always be vigilant of challenges faced by their schools and report them to the department for necessary attention,” said MEC Chiloane.