Gauteng MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane, accompanied by departmental delegates, visited the family of Milton Neo Mokgoatsane (10), a Grade 5 learner from Reagile Primary School in Winnie Mandela Park, Zone 11, who died on February 16 following an accident on the school premises.

The visit aimed to offer condolences and update the family on steps being taken by the department.

Speaking during the visit, Chiloane said the department’s priority was to support the grieving family and ensure that a thorough investigation is conducted.

“We are at the family home of our deceased child. Today’s visit is about conveying our deepest condolences and communicating the steps to be taken by the department to ensure the family is able to find closure,” he said.

According to preliminary information, the learner was struck by a pole on the school grounds. Chiloane acknowledged that the family is seeking further clarity.

“There is currently a police investigation underway, and we have also initiated a private investigation to assist in providing more answers and clarity on what could have led to the accident. Through this process, we will determine accountability,” he said.

Also read: 10-year-old dies in playground incident at Reagile Primary

He added that psychosocial support teams have been at the school since the incident occurred, offering counselling to learners and staff.

“It is a painful experience for both the department and the family. The school and the broader community have been supportive from day one,” he said.

Family spokesperson Thomas Ndobe described Milton as a well-behaved child.

“He was a good child, like any other. As a parent, when you send your child to school, you expect them to return home the way they left,” said Ndobe.

He said the family is seeking closure and raised concerns about the response following the incident.

“As a family, we need closure. We are concerned that no immediate action was taken by the school, such as taking the child to hospital timeously or calling emergency services promptly,” he said.

Ndobe confirmed that during their meeting, the MEC committed to providing the family with a report within two weeks.

“We could not ask many questions about the maintenance of the school because we are now waiting for the report. We want to know exactly how the child died,” he added.

The family also expressed gratitude to the Zone 11 community and the local councillor for their support during this difficult time.

Ndobe further said the family remains concerned about the maintenance of the school and how the situation escalated to the loss of a child. However, they have chosen to await the department’s promised report before raising additional questions.