Three KZN matric learners were killed and three others were injured in a car crash that happened in the early hours of yesterday morning after a pens down party.

The KZN Education Department said the three learners who were injured had to be hospitalised.

The department added that the vehicle the learners were travelling in was involved in a collision in the Amajuba District. They are from Mnyamande High School.

KZN Education MEC Mbali Frazer conveyed her condolences to the families of the learners who died, and wished those in the hospital a speedy recovery.

“The loss of these young lives is tragic and wears heavily in my heart as we wait in anticipation the results of the 2023 NSC Examinations, which will now for them be awarded posthumously,” she says.

Frazer reiterates the words of the Minister for Education, Angie Motshekga, in pleading with parents and caregivers to keep a close eye on learners during this time.

She also advises against pens down parties as they may put the learners’ lives at risk.

Muzi Mahlambi, the department’s spokesperson, says the injured learners are currently in the ICU.

He adds the department has also sent a delegation of officials from the Amajuba District to visit the families of those who died.