Grade 3 learner dies from food poisoning

A Grade Three learner from a school in Tshepisong is confirmed to have died on Friday, October 20 after alleged food poisoning.

In a press statement released by The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE), two Grade Three learners from Onkgopotse Tiro Primary School were rushed to Tshepisong Clinic after complaining of stomach cramps. After receiving medical attention, one of the boys was confirmed dead, while the surviving learner is in a stable condition.

The GDE also confirms that it was after the learners bought a packet of biscuits from a local spaza shop in the area after which they fell ill.

“We wish to convey our sincerest condolences to the family of the deceased learner and the greater school community of Onkgopotse Tiro Primary School for their loss. We will dispatch our psychosocial support officials to the school for necessary support. We wish the learner who survived this incident a speedy recovery,” the department said in a statement.

The department also urges school governing bodies, parents, and communities at large to always be vigilant towards food or snacks sold in and around schools.

“Where it is suspected that the food or snacks may have expired, such information should be reported to the local health or police authorities for necessary action,” GDE concluded in a statement.