Two Thembisa families left devastated after the drowning of two boys
The MEC also said the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) would appoint an independent investigative law firm to probe the circumstances around the two deaths.
Two Thembisa families were left devastated when Sphamandla Peterson (15) and Sibusiso Sibiya (17) drowned while attending a school camp along the Hannops River near Centurion on April 15.
The boys participated in the camp from April 12 and were due to return home on the day they died.
Nomusa Mathebula, Spamandla’s grandmother, said the family was shocked to learn about the incident.
“We are still waiting for other family members to arrive so we can plan the funeral.”
ALSO READ: Two Thembisa youths drown at discipline camp
Mathebula believes the children were neglected during the trip.
“We would be glad if the MEC could fast-track the investigation and bring those responsible to justice. We will leave all investigation processes to the department to do their work and provide us with the answers,” she said.
Last week, Gauteng MEC for Education Matome Chiloane visited the two boys’ families to offer his support and services to help them find closure and justice.
During his visit to Thembisa on April 17, Chiloane paid his respects and condolences to Sphamandla’s family and pledged to help them.
“We visited the families because we care. We have spoken to them about this matter. What is important is that the department works with the families to align our necessary steps to help them find closure,” said Chiloane.
The MEC also said the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) would appoint an independent investigative law firm to probe the circumstances around the two deaths.
ALSO READ: Follow-up: GDE recommends investigation after two boys drown
Chiloane said he was disappointed that some Gauteng schools do not take extra precautions to safeguard learners’ lives during excursions. Furthermore, they did not adhere to the protocols for applying for excursions with the department.
“We will take disciplinary action against any persons found to have acted negligently, contributing to this fatal incident,” said Chiloane.
He added that the department hoped to receive the investigation report soon.
“Representatives of an independent law firm were introduced to the family and the school the learners attended.
“We send our heartfelt condolences to the families. The department will walk this journey with them until we put this matter to bed,” Chiloane said.
“We have deployed officials in the district to the school to assist the family until the funeral,” he said.
