AN independent investigation will be launched into the death of a grade 6 pupil, Mandla Chauke (12), during a school trip.
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane visited Refalotse Primary School in Winterveld, Tshwane, yesterday, 6 December, following the death of Mandla at Kgotleng Resort in Rooiwal, Tshwane.
He also visited the Chauke family.
Chiloane said: “We’ve decided to appoint an independent law firm to conduct an investigation to establish what happened.
“This investigation will run parallel to the police’s investigation.”
He said grade 6 pupils were accompanied by teachers and parents to the resort.
“After lunch, the pupils went to play at swimming pools. Teachers and parents were alerted by pupils about a child who was unresponsive in one of the pools.
“The teachers removed the pupil from the pool and tried to resuscitate him while waiting for emergency services and police.”
He was certified dead by paramedics.
Uncle and family spokesman, John Chauke, said that the family was heartbroken.
“We can’t point fingers at anyone,” he said, adding that they’ll wait for postmortem results.
“We need help to bury our child in a dignified manner,” he said.
The family and the department are still discussing funeral arrangements.
