Statement by Mr. Cameron Dugmore, Western Cape Education Minister

It was with great sadness that I received notice of the tragic death of Keegan Phillips in a freak accident yesterday. His death is not only a loss for the Phillips family, but also for the school, Hazeldeen Primary School, he attended, and for the community as a whole.

Keegan Phillips, a Grade 2 learner at Hazeldene Primary School in Mitchells Plain, was returning home after school when a gate at a local community sports ground fell on him, injuring him critically.

Others on the scene alerted the school. The school contacted emergency services, and a large group of teachers rushed to Keegan's aid. Paramedics tried to revive him, but Keegan died on the scene. The school reported the incident to our Safe Schools Call Centre of the WCED, in line with procedure.

Our Safe Schools programme has provided trauma debriefing for learners and teachers at the school. We will also provide any other support the school may need in warning learners about danger they might encounter when walking to and from school.

I wish to convey my heartfelt condolences to Ms. Phillips for her loss. It is shocking that Keegan had to die at this young age and our hearts go out to his family and loved ones. His death touches all of us and reminds us of the importance of teaching and protecting our children.

I have contacted the City of Cape Town Mayor's office to request them to launch and investigation regarding the incident with a view to ensure that proper preventative steps are taken and these kind of accidents do not take place.

I want to call on the local community to support the Phillips family and also Keegan's classmates and friends.

Inquiries:  Rudi Buys  082 57 6551