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The Gauteng Department of Education has taken decisive action following the tragic event that took place at Wag ’n Bietjie Resort in Witkoppen, where a young girl from Laerskool Queenswood in Pretoria met her untimely death by drowning. The Grade 7 learner was part of a school-organized day trip on January 20 when the incident occurred, shaking the school community and prompting a search for answers.
Understanding the gravity of the situation and the need for clarity, the department has appointed a reputable law firm to conduct an exhaustive and independent investigation into the exact circumstances that led to this heartbreaking incident. This move is indicative of the department's commitment to transparency and accountability, particularly when the well-being of students is at stake during educational activities.
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane has assured that the law firm will work closely with both the school's management team and the family of the deceased learner. In an expression of solidarity and shared grief, Chiloane stated, “We are devastated by this tragic loss and convey our sincerest condolences to the bereaved family and school community at large.”
While the police continue their investigation to understand the details of the mishap, the district officials and the school representatives have made a personal visit to the family of the learner, extending their heartfelt condolences during this difficult time.
MEC Chiloane highlighted the significance of this independent probe, expressing optimism that the investigation would shed light on the incident's details. As it stands, allegations point to the unfortunate reality that the young learner drowned during the school excursion.
In a solemn gesture of remembrance, Laerskool Queenswood organized a memorial service on Wednesday to honor the life of the student. These services often play a crucial role in providing a supportive space for students and faculty to grieve and start the healing process as a community.
The outcome of the independent investigation is anticipated to provide not only answers but also guide future actions and policies to prevent such tragedies from occurring again. Ensuring the safety of students during school trips is paramount, and this incident has highlighted the need for stringent safety measures and the continuous evaluation of existing protocols.