It is with a sense of profound sadness that I learnt of this morning’s tragic accident that lead to the death of nine learners and injuries to another five, two of whom are in a very serious condition.

Four learners are at Tygerberg Hospital and one at Red Cross Children’s hospital.

I visited Tygerberg Hospital this morning, with Provincial Health Minister, Minister Botha, and saw first hand that they were receiving the best possible treatment.

The learners involved in the accident were, reportedly, from four schools, namely; Bellville Technical High School, Kasselsvlei High School, Bellville South Primary, and Serepta Secondary.

On behalf of the WCED, I would like to extend my condolences to the families who have lost loved ones. They are in our thoughts and prayers.

The WCED is offering every form of assistance possible. This morning, social workers and psychologists from the WCED have joined a team of counselors from other departments to provide debriefing and counseling.

WCED officials will work with the schools concerned to provide further debriefing and trauma counseling to learners and teachers.

The names of the learners will be released by Disaster Management once next of kin have been notified.

For enquiries, contact Bronagh Casey:  072 724 1422 or brcasey@pgwc.gov.za.

Visit our website: http://wced.wcape.gov.za