Five learners from BonguCele JS School in Umtwalume were rushed to Mfundo Arnold Lushaba CHC on Wednesday morning after experiencing severe discomfort.

According to school principal Vuyani Nguse, seven students ate chips from a local tuck shop, but only five exhibited symptoms that required medical attention.

One student was kept for observation at the hospital, while the other four were later released.

Nguse confirmed that all the learners have since recovered and returned to school.

“After assembly, when they were in class, their teacher noticed they were not well. We then had to take them to the clinic and call their parents to let them know.”

The police were notified and accompanied the learners to the tuck shop, which remains open despite the incident.

The MEC for the Department of Social Development, Mbali Shinga, visited the school alongside traditional leaders, local council members, and DSD officials to offer support. On Thursday morning, one learner was again seen by the MEC at the hospital’s casualty ward due to lingering symptoms of food poisoning, including stomach cramps and vomiting.

Spokesperson for the department, Thuba Vilane, emphasised the importance of the MEC’s visit in providing support to the affected students and restoring stability at the school.

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