It was indeed a sad day at Saul Tsotetsi Sports Ground in Sebokeng as some of the deceased pupils were laid to rest on Sunday.
Some parents were overwhelmed by grief and had to be escorted out in wheelchairs to get air during the funeral service of three pupils who were killed when their scholar transport collided with a truck earlier this week.
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Pupils were also escorted outside as the pain became too much to bear.
Loud cries, prayers and screams echoed across the sports ground as Thato Moetji, Ofentse Vinger and Bokamoso Mokhobo’s coffins lay on the ground, a heartbreaking reminder of young lives lost too soon.
Speakers described Ofentse as a bright and loving kid whose warm smile brought joy to everyone around him.
Although his time was heartbreakingly short, the love he shared and the memories he created will forever remain etched in the hearts of those who knew him.
The tiny coffin of six-year-old Ofentse told a story of a life stolen far too soon.
It was wrapped in the same soft towel used to dry him as a baby and accompanied by his two favorite teddy bears.
Ofentse was the youngest of the 14 pupils who perished in the horrific crash. The sound of inconsolable sobbing filled the air as the community struggled to come to grips with the tragedy.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, who attended the emotional service, admitted that the public education system needs an urgent overhaul.
He noted that parents often bypass local schools for private ones further away, leading to long, dangerous trips for pupils.
Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and People with Disabilities, Sindiswa Chikunga delivered a stern warning to parents and transport operators alike.
“To all parents and guardians, today we reach a level call. Vet every driver. Ask for their licence and requirements. If it feels unsafe, it is unsafe,” she said.
She didn’t hold back when she addressed taxi owners who prioritise cash over lives.
“You carry futures. If your profit model requires cutting corners, then your model is inhumane. Upgrade or step aside. We will remove bad operators from our roads,” she said.
Bokamoso was also fondly remembered as a vibrant young girl whose life was tragically cut short just as she was beginning a new chapter.
She recently started grade 8 at Hoërskool Vanderbijlpark when she passed away in Vanderbijlpark while on her way to school.
She will be remembered for her optimistic spirit, bubbly personality and deep love for dance. Though her life was brief, her light shone brightly and will continue to live on in the hearts of many.
Thato was remembered as a bold and confident young girl, full of life and unafraid to stand up for herself.
Bubbly in spirit, her presence brought warmth, laughter and strength to those around her. She had a remarkable way of lighting up a room and leaving a lasting impression on everyone she met.
Thato was involved in the devastating scholar transport accident. She later succumbed to her injuries and passed away on Thursday, 22 January at Netcare Alberton Hospital.
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The man behind the wheel on that dark Monday, Ayanda Dludla, has already appeared in the Vanderbijlpark Magistrates Court.
He faces 14 counts of murder, three counts of attempted murder, reckless and negligent driving.
