Pretoria - The Mpumalanga Department of Education has started a formal investigation into the incident that led to the death of a learner at Cefups Academy.
The 19-year-old Grade 12 learner was taken to Mediclinic Nelspruit on Thursday by her guardian, who apparently told hospital personnel that she had been beaten with a sjambok at the private school.
Her injuries were severe and she was admitted to ICU. She died later on Friday.
Department spokesperson Jasper Zwane says the investigation team will leave no stone unturned in bringing the perpetrators to book. The team is also expected to advise the department on possible action to be taken, in line with the regulations relating to independent schools.
“The investigating team is expected to submit their final report to the Head of Department (HOD) on Friday, 8 August. The HOD will rely on this report to make an informed decision,” Zwane said.
Zwane said they will work closely with the bereaved family to ensure that justice takes its course.
“The department wishes to state categorically that it does not condone any acts of corporal punishment in any of its schools, including independent schools.”
Cefups made headlines in 2012 when three boarding masters were found guilty of assault with the intent to do grievous bodily harm. - SAnews.gov.za
