File photo
The Gauteng Department of Education has confirmed the death of a learner from suspected food poisoning.
Spokesperson, Steven Mabona, said a Grade 3 learner from Onkgopotse Tiro Primary School in Tshepisong, in Roodepoort, passed away at a local clinic on Friday.
He said two boys in Grade Three had complained of stomach cramps in class and were rushed to Tshepisong Clinic.
“Unfortunately, after a few minutes of receiving medical attention, one learner was certified dead. The surviving learner was transferred to Leratong Hospital for further medical treatment, and is in stable condition,” he said.
Mabona said according to available information, the boys bought and ate a pack of biscuits from a local spaza shop.
He said the Department would provide Psycho-Social Support to the schools.
The Department expressed its condolences to the family of the deceased child and also wished the other boy a speedy recovery.
“We continue to urge School Governing Bodies (SGBs), parents, and communities at large to be always vigilant towards the food or snacks sold in and around schools,” Mabona said.
He said where it is suspected that the food or snack may have expired, such information should be reported to the local health or police authorities for necessary action.
