MEC for Education in Gauteng, Panyaza Lesufi is currently briefing the media at Parktown Boys’ High School after the tragic death of a learner who was attending schools’ orientation camp near Brits in the North West Province.
The learner was last seen on Wednesday, 15 January during a water activity. His body was found on Friday, 17 January. Lesufi said he was uncertain whether life jackets were worn during the activity.
There were approximately 200 learners at the camp #ParktownBoysCamp @RK_Gazette
— Sarah Koning (@SarahKingon) January 17, 2020
@Lesufi says the boy went missing on Wednesday but only at the head count it was discovered that he was missing #ParktownBoysCamp @RK_Gazette
— Sarah Koning (@SarahKingon) January 17, 2020
Lesufi says teachers must compile a report. Those to be held accountable for misconduct will be liable. The report will be compiled within 3 months #ParktownBoysCamp @RK_Gazette
— Sarah Koning (@SarahKingon) January 17, 2020
@Lesufi says the boy could not sleep the night before the camp because he was looking forward to it. He dreamt of becoming a lawyer #ParktownBoysCamp @RK_Gazette
— Sarah Koning (@SarahKingon) January 17, 2020
Lesufi admits that it was an unpleasant task to inform the family of the learner about their child’s passing. “The family was crying uncontrollably, it was a very difficult task.” He also thanked the community for their assistance in helping to look for the boy.
Lesufi says what is concerning is the timelines. The case was only opened yesterday at 3pm but the child drowned on Wednesday. #ParktownBoysCamp @RK_Gazette
— Sarah Koning (@SarahKingon) January 17, 2020
The case will be investigated thoroughly.
Lesufi says the timelines, head count, raft and safety measures will be investigated #ParktownBoysCamp @RK_Gazette
— Sarah Koning (@SarahKingon) January 17, 2020
WATCH:
Dr Shaheda Omar from the Teddy Bear Foundation encourages parents directly and indirectly affected by this tragedy to seek professional counselling offered by the GDE #ParktownBoysCamp @RK_Gazette
— Sarah Koning (@SarahKingon) January 17, 2020
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