PUPILS and teachers at Riebeeckstad Hoerskool were in tears following the identification of the pupils who died in a horrific bus crash on Tuesday, 6 February.
The tragic bus accident that occurred on the R70 road between Senekal and Ventersburg, claimed six lives, while 40 pupils are receiving medical treatment at various hospitals in Welkom, Ficksburg.
Following the identification of the deceased by family members, police revealed that the departed pupils include Oagile Gailele (13), Lerato Keketsi (13), Busisiwe Makansela (13), Tlotlisang Mokotjo (13), Relebohile Nteo (14), Katleho Semelo (13).
Provincial Education Department Spokesman, Howard Ndaba, said the department has sent social workers to provide psycho-social support to the pupils and teachers.
The department said a 14-year-old pupil who was one of the survivors was first admitted at Senekal’s Itemoheng Hospital for stabilisation then transferred to Dihlabeng Regional Hospital for further specialist treatment and then sent to the Pelonomi Tertiary Hospital for Neurosurgery.
ALSO READ: WATCH: Punishment for popular suburb drowning in debt
"Despite serious head injuries sustained, the patient is doing well and is able to recognise family members. We hope she'll fully recover as a result of the continuous care she's receiving," said the provincial health spokesman, Mondli Mvambi.
Mvambi said the other 14-year-old pupil with facial injuries remained under treatment at the Dihlabeng Regional Hospital and is scheduled for an appointment on Monday, 12 February.
"The three pupils, who are stable with critical head injuries, are treated at Bongani Regional Hospital. One of them was also taken to theatre for surgery, and she has been moved to the recovery ward. She is able to talk but still under heavy medication and sedated. Another child, who was admitted at Medi-Clinic, is also doing well," Mvambi said.
MEC for Education Makalo Mohale visited the pupil earlier this week. The memorial service of the dead schoolchildren will be held at the school on Thursday, 15 February.
