Gauteng MEC of Education Matome Chiloane has given an independent investigative law firm two weeks, to probe the death of Grade R learner Manqoba Mnisi at Bernard Isaacs Primary School, in Coronationville, who died after he was allegedly locked inside a classroom.
Chiloane presented the firm, Buthelezi-Vilakazi Incorporated, at the school on Thursday morning.
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The firm has been appointed for two weeks to conduct an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Manqoba’s death.
Manqoba, who was from Jabulani in Soweto, reportedly sustained injuries on the school premises on Monday, February 2, 2026, and later died in hospital.
His family says they are struggling to come to terms with what happened.
The department said unclear details surrounding the incident prompted it to institute an independent investigation to establish the full facts.
Departmental spokesperson Steve Mabona said Chiloane first met with the Mnisi family to formally introduce the law firm.
He then proceeded to the school in Coronationville, where he introduced the firm to the School Management Team and the School Governing Body.
During both engagements, Chiloane outlined the purpose of the investigation, including its terms of reference and scope.
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According to Mabona, the firm has been mandated to investigate the allegations surrounding Manqoba’s death and to interview the district director, circuit manager, cluster leader, principal, educators, general assistant, the child’s parents, security officers, community members, learners and any other relevant witnesses.
