educators in tragic incidents
6 November 2006
MEC Angie Motshekga offered her condolences to the families of educators who
died tragically over the weekend.
When visiting Igagasi Primary School earlier today, MEC Angie Motshekga was
told by the school principal that on Saturday, 4 November 2006, the educators
were travelling from Newcastle in KwaZulu-Natal when the kombi in which they
were travelling overturned because of a suspected tyre burst. Six educators
were injured and one died on the scene.
On hearing about the accident, another educator who was supposed to have
travelled with the group committed suicide. According to the principal, a
suicide note indicated that he felt guilty because he was the one who was
supposed to provide transport and drive his colleagues but instead requested
his cousin to drive them.
"We are very shocked that the educators, who were showing compassion by
attending the funeral of a learner, were struck by this tragedy. Our
condolences to the families, the educators, learners and the community and of
course our deepest sympathy to the family of the educator who committed
suicide," said MEC Angie Motshekga.
The district office in Ekurhuleni will provide counselling to the learners,
educators and those that survived the accident. A memorial service will be held
at the school on Thursday, 8 November 2006 and a joint funeral of the educators
will be held over the weekend.
Motshekga will on Tuesday, 7 November visit the families of the
deceased.
Enquiries:
Panyaza Lesufi
Cell: 083 256 7933
Mbela Phetlhe
Cell: 083 700 1076
Issued by: Department of Education, Gauteng Provincial Government
6 November 2006
