The death toll from a devastating collision between a scholar transport vehicle and a truck in Vanderbijlpark, in the Vaal region, has risen to 14 after another learner died in hospital on Monday. The crash occurred earlier in the morning while the scholar transport vehicle was ferrying pupils to school.
Emergency services rushed to the scene following reports of a serious collision involving the minibus and a truck. Several learners sustained critical injuries and were transported to nearby hospitals for urgent medical treatment. Authorities later confirmed that one of the injured learners succumbed to their injuries, bringing the total number of fatalities to 14.
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane expressed shock and devastation over the tragedy, describing it as a painful loss for families, schools, and the province as a whole. He called for stricter oversight, improved regulation, and increased vigilance regarding private scholar transport operators to ensure learner safety on the roads.
President Cyril Ramaphosa also extended his condolences to the bereaved families, educators, and school communities affected by the crash. The Presidency confirmed that psychological and trauma support will be made available to learners, families, and school staff during this difficult time.
Investigations into the cause of the collision are ongoing, while calls grow louder for improved road safety measures and accountability within the scholar transport sector.