By Obakeng Maje
Taung- The residents of Taung gathered together at Kgosietsile Lethola High School in remembrance of a tragically event where 34 people perished in an accident.

The high school paid a tribute to 32 pupils and two teachers who died in a horrific accident back in 1975 after the bus that they were traveling in lost control and ploughed against the embankment.

The school was on an educational tour when the atrocity happened.

“We came together to celebrate and commemorate those who died in a tragedy. We want their families and loved ones to know that they did not die in vain. We would remember them as true heroes and their spirits will always be with us” Kgosietsile Lethola principal Gaolaolwe Obotseng said.

According to the school principal, they want the graves of all those who were involved in a crash to be recognized as monument.

“We approached North West Heritage Council to forward our request, but they said the graves must reach 40 years before they could be recognized as a Heritage site” Obotseng said.

One of the survivors relived the fateful day when the relishing moment turned into tragedy. “We were on an educational tour in a bus to Manyeleti Game Reserve in Limpopo. The driver lost control and the bus ploughed into an embankment. 34 people died and I want to thank Almighty for sparing my life. Even though I lost my leg in the accident, all is not lost. We would like the government to help us and make sure those who died are honoured” Rosy Mpoletsang Molale laments.

The event was blended with a Heritage Day celebrations. The Department of Rural Environment and Agricultural Development representative Richard Gasealalwe said the youth must make sure they learn about their identity.

“Our youth need to learn about the indigenous food, learn about our heritage, our identity and rearing of a an African child” he said.
-TDN
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