Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture & Recreation, Matome Chiloane, wishes to express his deep sadness over the tragic passing of four learners, three from Karabo Primary School and one from Khauhelo Primary School, both located in Soweto.
These learners allegedly died on Sunday, 6 October, after consuming food that is suspected to have been poisoned. “According to information at our disposal, a Grade 1 boy (age 7), a Grade 2 girl (age 8), and a Grade 3 boy (age 9) from Karabo Primary School sadly passed away on Sunday after allegedly consuming food suspected to have contained poison,” said Steve Mabona.
Additionally, a Grade 1 boy learner from the school remains in ICU at a local medical facility after also having consumed the food.In a separate incident, an 8-year-old Grade 2 boy from Khauhelo Primary School also passed away on Sunday after allegedly consuming snacks purchased from a spaza shop in Naledi.
Police are currently investigating circumstances surrounding these tragic incidents. The GDE, together with the affected schools, has activated the necessary support structures to provide psycho-social counseling to affected learners, educators, and family members.
“We wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and school communities affected by these tragic incidents. The safety and well-being of our learners remain our top priority, and we urge parents, guardians, and communities to exercise caution regarding the food consumed by children,” said MEC Chiloane.
