GDE Brings In Independent Lawyers To Investigate Death Of Grade R Learner In Coronationville

The Gauteng Department of Education has appointed an independent law firm to investigate the tragic death of a five-year-old learner at a Johannesburg primary school, promising the family that the matter will be treated with urgency.

Manqoba Mnisi, a Grade R pupil at Bernard Isaacs Primary School, died last week after sustaining injuries on the school premises. His death has shaken not only his family but also the wider school community in Coronationville and parts of Soweto, where his family lives.

MEC Visits Grieving Family In Soweto

On Friday morning, Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane visited the Mnisi family in Soweto, assuring them that the investigation into their son’s death will be prioritised.

According to the Gauteng Department of Education, the young learner allegedly sustained injuries while at school and was later hospitalised. He passed away later that same day.

For many parents across Gauteng, the news has raised difficult questions about safety protocols at schools, particularly for younger learners in Grade R, who require close supervision throughout the school day.

Law Firm Appointed To Establish Full Facts

Department spokesperson Steve Mabona confirmed that a law firm has been brought in to establish the full facts surrounding what happened.

“The law firm will be formally introduced by the MEC on Tuesday, 17 February 2026,” he said.

The decision to appoint independent legal investigators suggests the department is seeking a thorough and transparent process. In cases involving learner deaths, particularly those that occur on school grounds, external investigations are often used to ensure impartiality and restore public confidence.

Allegations Add To Family’s Pain

Manqoba’s mother has alleged that her son was locked inside a classroom. The department has not confirmed these claims, stating that the appointed law firm will determine the circumstances that led to the five-year-old’s injuries and death.

For many South African families, schools are meant to be safe spaces where children learn, grow and are protected. When tragedy strikes within those walls, it deeply unsettles communities.

As the investigation begins, the Mnisi family and the broader Gauteng community will be waiting for clear answers. The findings of the probe are expected to shed light on what happened at the Coronationville school and whether any failures in supervision or procedure contributed to the young learner’s death.

{Source:EWN}

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