VANDERBIJLPARK. – The Gauteng MEC for Education, Panyaza Lesufi thanked all stakeholders and community members who offered support in the aftermath of a Driehoek High School cement bridge collapsing.
Lesufi was handing over the newly built walkway after the completion of its construction last week.
Lesufi said he is still worried about the four lives lost due to the sudden accident.
Speaking during the unveiling of a plaque in memory of the event, joined by Mittal South Africa and SGB, he said he intends to approach the parents of the deceased.
Lesufi thanks every stakeholder from the bottom of his heart for making sure a complete job is done.
Thanks went to the Department of Labour, Police, the SGB and to learners who studied in tents during heavy rains.
“There are three procedural issues I want us to work on. I am not impressed by the cutting of a ribbon.
“We need to meet the parents of the deceased to give permission to unveil this plaque in honour of those who lost their lives. They have paid the highest price – their children’s lives.
“Secondly we have received countless legal documents from the parents threatening legal action against the Department.
“Others have executed legal action, but I feel that the lawyers must meet them to sort out the crisis.
The premier’s office played a role through guidance on how to conduct this process.”
Arcellor Mittal officials said that they are happy in working together with the SGB and the Gauteng Education Department until the end of the structure.
“Money was not an issue here. What is key is to see the learners back in their classrooms and continuing with their education.”
