Emergency crews at the scene of Monday’s fatal scholar transport crash in Vanderbijlpark, Gauteng. Thirteen learners lost their lives, and several others were injured. Picture Credit: Facebook
By Aisha Zardad
Vanderbijlpark – A tragic road accident in Vanderbijlpark, Gauteng, early on Monday morning has claimed the lives of 13 schoolchildren and left others injured, police and officials confirmed. The crash occurred at around 7 a.m. on Fred Droste Road when a private scholar transport minibus reportedly collided head‑on with a side‑tipper truck while attempting to overtake multiple vehicles. Preliminary reports suggest the driver lost control before striking the oncoming truck.
Emergency crews arriving at the scene found the overturned minibus, with blood-stained school bags scattered across the road. Witnesses described chaotic scenes as parents rushed to the site. One grieving mother, who lost two of her children, collapsed, crying: “Two of my children are dead… What did I do to God to deserve this?”
Colonel Mavela Masondo, spokesperson for Gauteng police, said initial reports listed 11 fatalities at the scene, but the toll later rose to 13 as more victims were confirmed. Several learners were injured and taken to Sebokeng Hospital, while others and the minibus driver received medical treatment. The truck driver survived but remained unconscious. Police have opened a culpable homicide case, and investigators are examining whether speed, vehicle condition, or other factors contributed to the crash.
Concerns have emerged over the minibus driver, believed to be 22 years old, with sources suggesting he did not hold a valid professional driving permit (PDP) and had a history of reckless driving — matters now under investigation.
The tragedy prompted a national response. President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed deep sorrow, stating: “Our children are the nation’s most precious assets. We must do all we can – from observing the rules of the road to ensuring the quality and accountability of scholar transport operators – to protect the lives of learners.” He emphasized the need for comprehensive safety measures and confirmed that authorities would provide psychosocial support to affected families and schools.
Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube also mourned the loss of the learners, saying: “I have learned with deep sadness of a tragic motor vehicle accident that occurred this morning involving a vehicle transporting learners to school. My heartfelt condolences and sympathies go to the families, friends, classmates, and school communities of the learners who perished. I wish strength and comfort to all those affected by this devastating incident.” She urged motorists to exercise “extreme caution” and highlighted the need for rigorous checks on scholar transport vehicles.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and Education MEC Matome Chiloane visited the scene and echoed calls for tighter regulation of private scholar transport services. The tragedy has intensified public debate about scholar transport safety, enforcement of roadworthiness standards, and the accountability of operators entrusted with transporting learners safely to school.
