Gauteng Education MEC Announces Independent Probe into Student Drownings

Gauteng Education MEC Matome Kopano announced that independent law firms will investigate the tragic deaths of two students, Sphamandla Peterson, 15, and Sibusiso Sibiya, 17, who drowned during a school camp along the Hannops River near Centurion on April 15, 2024. The MEC made the announcement during an interview on SABC News on April 23, 2024.

MEC Kopano visited the grieving families to offer support and condolences on behalf of the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE). He pledged to help them find closure and justice by appointing an independent investigative law firm to probe the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident. "The department will take disciplinary action against any persons found to have acted negligently, contributing to this tragedy," Kopano stated.

Why this matters: The drowning deaths of two students during a school-sanctioned camp raises serious questions about the safety protocols and oversight in place for such excursions. The independent investigation aims to uncover any negligence or lapses that may have contributed to the tragedy, holding those responsible accountable and preventing similar incidents in the future.

The MEC expressed disappointment that some Gauteng schools do not take proper precautions to safeguard learners during excursions and fail to adhere to the protocols for applying for such trips.

The Gauteng Department of Education will provide support to the affected families as they confront the devastating loss of Sphamandla Peterson and Sibusiso Sibiya. The independent investigation is expected to shed light on the events leading up to the drownings and identify any areas where safety measures and protocols may have fallen short. The findings will guide the department in taking appropriate disciplinary action and implementing enhanced safeguards to protect students during future school activities.

Key Takeaways

• Two students drowned during a school camp near Centurion on April 15, 2024.
• Gauteng Education MEC announced independent law firms will investigate the incident.
• The investigation aims to uncover negligence and prevent similar incidents in the future.
• The department will take disciplinary action against any persons found negligent.
• The findings will guide the department in enhancing safety protocols for school activities.