Teacher dies, four injured when school bus, truck collide

(Photo: Facebook)

One person was killed and four seriously injured when a school bus from Laerskool Kathu collided with a lorry on its way to a sports day.

The collision took place on the N14 outside Kuruman at around 7.20am on Saturday.

The Northern Cape Education Department said it was deeply saddened by the tragic loss of a teacher.

A total of 44 learners and ten teachers and staff from the school were on their way to Seodin Primary School for the rugby and netball finals in the Van Druten league when the collision occurred.

“Another educator was taken by helicopter to Bloemfontein for urgent medical treatment, while three others were transported to Kimberley,” said Geoffrey van der Merwe, spokesperson for the department. “Their condition remains critical. The learners sustained minor injuries and received the necessary medical attention.”

The sports day was canceled and immediate counseling was provided to the learners and teachers and staff involved. According to Van der Merwe, a counseling session has also been organized for Monday at the school to support the school community in this difficult time.

“The district office is working closely with the school and affected families to provide the necessary support and assistance.

“The department expresses its deepest condolences to the family, friends, colleagues and learners affected by this tragic loss. We also wish all those injured a full and speedy recovery.”

Ao. Molefi Shemane, police spokesperson, said the collision took place about 10 km outside Kuruman.

“The cause of the accident is being investigated,” he said.