THE two pupils from Daveyton Skills School, who tragically drowned in the Hennops River in Tshwane last week, are set to be laid to rest on Wednesday, 24 April in Thembisa, Ekurhuleni.
The pupils were part of a group of 90 attending a discipline camp from 12 April, with a planned return on 16 April.
However, their peers, present during the tragic incident on 15 April, have expressed concerns over finding closure.
They claimed the school principal has barred them from attending the funeral, allegedly following orders from the education department due to it being a normal school day.
Only learner representatives and the school choir have been allowed to attend.
"We want to send them off in our own way, as the incident occurred in our presence. We feel discriminated against," a pupil said.
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Contrary to the principal's claims, Steve Mabona, spokesman for the Gauteng Department of Education, said the department hadn't issued any directive preventing pupils from attending the funeral.
"Our children have been traumatised by the incidents and allowing them to attend may aid in their healing process," a parent said.
A joint funeral for Siphamadla Peterson (15) and Sibusiso Sibiya (17) will be held at Rabasotho Community Hall in Thembisa.
The pupils drowned during a discipline camp at Rock Falls Adventure Ranch in Centurion, Tshwane.
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane is expected to attend the funeral in Thembisa.
