Chiloane introduces independent law firm to probe learner’s death
Mnisi, a Grade R learner at Bernard Isaacs Primary School in Coronationville, died following an incident on the school premises.
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane has formally introduced the independent law firm appointed to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of Manqoba Mnisi.
Mnisi, a Grade R learner at Bernard Isaacs Primary School in Coronationville, died on February 2 following an incident on the school premises.
The appointed firm, Buthelezi-Vilakazi Incorporated, has been mandated to conduct an independent investigation.
Chiloane first met with the Mnisi family to introduce the firm.
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He then visited Bernard Isaacs Primary School, where he introduced the investigators to the School Management Team (SMT) and the School Governing Body (SGB).
During both engagements, Chiloane outlined the purpose, terms of reference and scope of the investigation, which include:
1. Investigating the allegations surrounding Mnisi’s death, including engagements with the district director, circuit manager, cluster leader, principal, teachers, general assistant, the learner’s parents, security officers, community members, learners and other relevant witnesses.
2. Producing clear findings and recommendations in line with applicable legislation, including education laws, the South African Schools Act (SASA), the Employment of Educators Act (EE Act), the Children’s Act and other relevant statutes.
3. Determining the merits and circumstances of the allegations; the conduct of teachers, the SMT and the principal; whether the matter was reported to the department; the cause of death; whether any departmental employees failed in their legal obligations towards the learner; whether the department is liable; whether there was any omission; whether there is a broader problem at the school; and the role of the SGB.
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Chiloane said the firm has two weeks to complete its investigation and submit a report with findings and recommendations.
He reiterated the department’s commitment to establishing the truth, adding that the Mnisi family shares this resolve.
“The department remains unwavering in its commitment to establishing the truth. We have full confidence in the independence and capability of Buthelezi-Vilakazi Incorporated to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation.
“Whatever findings emerge from this process will be acted upon decisively, as has been the case with previous independent investigations undertaken by the department,” said Chiloane.
