Community members have expressed their outrage on social media following the death of Enock Mpianzi at a Parktown Boys’ High School Grade 8 orientation camp on 15 January.
Many have labelled the situation a case of gross negligence while sources on Twitter have alleged that Grade 8 learners saw Enock struggling in the water, while others said the boy was swept away by the current while teachers called his father to see if he really got on the bus. These allegations cannot be confirmed.
Parktown Boys’ has suspended their academic and sporting programme on 20 January. Learners will be addressed by trauma counsellors during the course of the day.
The school issued a communication to parents stating that they are in discussions with Enock’s family concerning their wishes for a memorial service and assistance with the funeral.
Boys have also initiated a white and black ribbon campaign in memory of Enock.
Headmaster Malcolm Williams said, “I would like to underline the school’s absolute support and commitment to the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) and the South African Police Service investigation into the tragedy.
“We will ensure that no stone remains unturned in order to get to the bottom of this tragedy, to ensure it never happens again.”
Williams continued, “As we await the facts and outcome of the inquiry it is natural for there to be widespread speculation, as we have seen in the media this weekend. We understand that there are many unanswered questions, causing much hurt and frustration, but at this time we request that a level of respect and understanding prevails while the relevant investigations are underway and out of respect for the family of Enock.”
Williams expressed concern for learners saying that there will be trying days ahead.
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