A Grade 7 learner was electrocuted at Mokutupi Primary School in Limpopo’s Mopani West Education District, during lunch break this week.
According to the preliminary report, the young learner was electrocuted next to the mobile classrooms on the school premises.
A staff member contacted emergency medical services, while a teacher was sent to inform the learner’s parents.
The School Governing Body was also notified of the incident.
Paramedics rushed to the school and attended to the learner, but the child was sadly certified dead at the scene.
Limpopo Department of Education spokesperson Isaac Mahlangu said the department was devastated by the loss.
The department has extended its condolences to the child’s loved ones and the wider school community.
Mahlangu said the department was working with relevant authorities to determine exactly what happened.
“The department extends its deepest condolences to the learner’s family, friends, fellow learners, educators and the entire Mokutupi Primary School community during this difficult and painful time, while currently working with the relevant authorities to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.”
Further assessments will also be conducted at the school to ensure the safety of learners and staff is not compromised.
The department has urged learners and members of the school community to remain calm while investigations are under way.
“Psychosocial support will be provided to affected learners and staff members to assist them in dealing with the trauma arising from this tragic incident.”
The department said the support was intended to help those affected cope with the trauma following the learner’s death.
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