By Jonk wa Mashamba
news@alexreporter.co.za
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane is shocked by the occurrence of a gas explosion on Wednesday, 23 August 2023, at Zodwa Learners with Special Educational Needs (LSEN) school in Atteridgeville, Tshwane, which led to the death of two employees and injured several other staff.
Gauteng Department of Education’s spokesperson, Steve Mabona, said a gas leak was experienced in tge morning at Zodwa LSEN school while mobile classrooms were being installed.
“Subsequently, a fire broke out on the school premises which unfortunately resulted in the death of two of the contractor’s employees who were trapped inside a mobile classroom.
“It must be noted that approximately four other contractor employees sustained injuries as a result of the fire and were immediately rushed to a local medical facility,” said Mabona.
He said the police were investigating circumstances surrounding the gas leak which led to a disastrous fire.
Chiloane said their Psycho-Social Unit visited the school yesterday to extend necessary trauma support and counselling to those affected by the incident.
“We are shaken by this abrupt gas explosion that has stolen the lives of two employees at Zodwa LSEN School. We are deeply saddened by this loss and wish to extend our sincerest condolences to the affected families and school community at large.
“We also wish a speedy recovery to those employees who were injured by this incident,” said Chiloane.
