By: Natasha Archary
Gauteng Education MEC, Matome Chiloane says an independent law firm will be appointed to conduct an investigation into the drowning of two boys on Monday, 15 April.
The two boys aged 13 and 16 from the special needs school in Benoni, lost their lives whilst allegedly taking part in water activities during a school excursion.
Addressing media at the school on Wednesday, 17 April, the MEC said the the excursion was not approved by the Department, and made the shocking revelation that there were no teachers present during the 3-day trip.
Chiloane said the learners were in the care of a single social worker, and assured parents that educators responsible for the planning and execution of this trip will face consequences.
Acording to Chiloane 90 learners were on the school excursion at the Rock Fall Adventure Camping Site which is situated in Centurion.
As reported, one of the boys allegedly ran to the river, and the second boy followed him in an attempt to bring him back.
This was reportedly after activities had been concluded.
It is further alleged that the learner who ran off, jumped into the river, prompting the second boy to try and rescue him, resulting in both drowning as a result.
Divers reportedly retrieved their bodies.
Chiloane said it is irresponsible for schools to shirk responsibility by asking parents to sign a disclaimer that the school cannot be held responsible in the event of injury or death.
“With regard to the school, we will employ an independent law firm to get to the bottom of the matter as to what happened.
It’s not an ideal situation to find we may have to suspend those responsible or take action against them, we don’t want that.
For us to avoid that situation we want to urge our schools, that should you plan to undertake any trip where you know there will be water, and all these venues have some form of water, whether it’s pools, or a lake or a dam because they form part of the tourist attraction, make sure that precautions are taken.
Don’t assume that where you are going it’s going to be okay. These situations come back with repercussions time and time again and we have to go back and explain to families what happened to their child because they entrusted their child to us.
You cannot work based on a disclaimer that you have made parents sign, that should anything happen to their child the school is not responsible. You can’t do that anymore, it’s not right.
It means you are concious of the potential dangers that are there, but you want to protect the school’s interest and that’s not being fair.”
Gauteng Education MEC – Matome Chiloane
Educators have been given guidelines for excursions. It’s concerning that these seem to be ignored. I still don’t understand why you wouldn’t ensure there are lifeguards near bodies of water on these trips. I urge everyone involved in organising them to take necessary precautions… pic.twitter.com/2mmaMbQXa7
— Matome Chiloane (@matomekopano) April 17, 2024
Chiloane said it will take time for the independent law firm to conclude its investigation and the outcome of the report will be communicated thereafter.
Also read: DA calls for stricter measures to ensure safety of learners during school outings
