Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi addressed the media on 24 January at the Gauteng Department of Education, where he gave an update regarding the Parktown Boys’ High School recent tragedy where learner Enock Mpianzi died at Nyati Lodge in Brits.
Lesufi expressed that the start of 2020 has been marred by a series of unfortunate incidents, such as the death of Enock. He said he is committed to finding out what happened and those responsible for the tragedy will be held accountable. Due to the nature of the investigation the headmaster Malcolm Williams has been suspended, Lesufi added that teachers will not be charged as a collective but individually on the basis of the roles assigned to them.
The Gauteng Department of Education did hint earlier this week that a law firm will conduct an independent investigation of the matter which Lesufi confirmed, “An investigation will research whether the school, SGB, district and department were liable. All parties will be assessed.”
The MEC dropped a few bombshells, one where he confirmed that the school trip was not authorised by the district.
This publication’s journalist Sarah Koning is attending the press briefing, follow her tweets here
Current camps made by schools will be revised #ParktownBoysCamp @RK_Gazette
— Sarah Koning (@SarahKingon) January 24, 2020
The family has been notified that a number of parties would like to offer them financial assistance for the funeral and memorial service #ParktownBoysCamp @RK_Gazette
— Sarah Koning (@SarahKingon) January 24, 2020
The memorial service is set to take place on Tuesday at 12noon. The venue is still to be announced @RK_Gazette #ParktownBoysCamp
— Sarah Koning (@SarahKingon) January 24, 2020
Lesufi wants to assure worried parents that all future camps will be scruitinised @RK_Gazette #ParktownBoysCamp
— Sarah Koning (@SarahKingon) January 24, 2020
All camps with water-related activities should get authorisation directly from head office from now on @RK_Gazette #ParktownBoysCamp
— Sarah Koning (@SarahKingon) January 24, 2020
Related articles:
Parktown Boys’ SGB responds to MEC’s threat of imminent action against the school
LISTEN: Parktown Boys’ learner shares his side of the story after the tragic death of #EnochMpianzi
Day 2: Silent protest outside of Parktown Boys #JusticeForEnock