By AGISANANG SCUFF
24 November 2025- The Gauteng MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane said it is deeply saddened by the unfortunate death of a Grade 12 girl learner, who passed away on 23 November 2025, after being hit by a scholar bus during a chaotic incident that occurred at Schaumburg Combined School in Hartbeespoort on 20 November 2025.
Chiloane said last Thursday, they received a report that chaos broke out at Schaumburg Combined School when four boys allegedly entered the school through a fence at the back of the premises.
He further said it was reported that the intruders then started a fight with Grade 12 learners, who were on their way home after completing their examinations. Chiloane added that the altercation intensified, learners from lower grades became unruly and joined the commotion.
“Educators intervened and attempted to restore order by directing learners toward the buses. At the bus loading area, the situation escalated further as some learners allegedly attempted to forcefully take control of buses.
“One bus driver, fearing for his safety, drove off to escape the unrest. Tragically, in the process, three Grade 12 learners and one Grade 10 learner were struck by the bus. Emergency medical services were immediately contacted and the injured learners were transported to a nearby hospital for medical attention,” he said.
Chiloane said the altercation reportedly subsided once learners realised the severity of the injuries sustained. He said that of the three Grade 12 learners who were admitted to hospital, one matric girl learner of them was transferred to a hospital in Ga-Rankuwa.
“Tragically, this learner succumbed to her injuries on 23 November 2025. The police have launched an investigation into the circumstances that led to the incident. The district officials and psychosocial support teams will be dispatched to Schaumburg Combined School to provide counselling and support to learners, staff and affected families.
“The department will continue working closely with law enforcement to ensure appropriate action is taken against those responsible for instigating the violence. The department conveys its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, friends, classmates, and the entire school community for their loss,” said Chiloane.
He said it is saddening that such a chaotic outburst led to the unfortunate passing of a learner who had completed his exams. Chiloane said they condemn the scrupulous individuals who instigated this unfortunate event.
The Guardian 