A SWIMMING event took a tragic turn on Tuesday, when a pupil drowned.
Eastern Cape Education spokesman Loyiso Pulumani said it happened at Central Primary School in King William’s Town.
“The school held a pool picnic for 28 pupils to reward those who had done well academically. Two teachers, including the swimming coach, were supervising.
“While responding to a grade R pupil with a bruised face, the supervisors were informed of a pupil lying face down,” he said.
Pulumani said the child was taken out of the pool and paramedics were called to the scene. “Unfortunately, they couldn’t resuscitate her.
“Her parents were called and informed of the tragedy.
“The head of the education social support services immediately visited the school and called in psychological support services for kids and teachers.”
A team has been sent to visit the family of the pupil, with more support to be decided.
Education MEC Mlungisi Mvoko expressed the department’s condolences. “Our hearts are very sore. We pledge to support the family and the school as best we can under the circumstances,” he said.
Captain Siphokazi Mawisa confirmed the incident.
“Police were called to the scene and found a seven-year-old girl drowned in the swimming-pool. First aiders were called to help but she died on the scene,”
