MEC Tate Makgoe saddened by Grade 1 pupil’s death

Local News/ 23 September 2022, 11:23am/ Staff Writer

Free State Department of Education MEC Tate Makgoe: image supplied

By Staff Writer: Free State police in Kopanong are investigating the death of a Caleb Motshabi Primary School pupil after his head became stuck in the window of a mobile toilet.

Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Covane told News24 that Kopanong police had launched an investigation on Friday. 

According to department of  Education MEC Tate Makgoe, the eight-year-old Grade 1 pupil had been playing with friends in nearby mobile toilets during the lunch break. 

One of them closed the toilet door and then they were unable to open it. The pupil tried to exit through the window, but his head became stuck. 

“The deceased pupil was trying to use the framed window at the toilet. His body managed to get out, but his head was stuck in the window frame. He was removed from the toilet and brought into an empty classroom, where he was certified dead three hours later while waiting for an ambulance and police,” Makgoe said.

Teachers, pupils, and staff are receiving psychological counseling. 

Makgoe conveyed his condolences to the pupil’s family and friends. 

“We would like to send our heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased learners, Caleb Motshabi Primary School community, especially learners who might have witnessed this tragic incident.” Said Makgoe