School walkway collapse pupil cremated
WHITE doves and multi-coloured balloons were released in celebration of a life cut too short.
Jandre Steyn,14, a Hoërskool Driehoek pupil, had his funeral service held at Vanderbijlpark yesterday.
He and three other learners died when the school’s walkway collapsed last week.
Twenty-six other pupils were injured.
During an emotional ceremony at the River of Life Family Church pupils in full school uniform wept as they bid farewell to their peer.
Addressing the mourners, Jandre’s father Jan passed a message of support to all affected families.
“I feel so much pain. I believe that God’s son is with the other children’s parents. To those who are injured, we pray for you.”
Jandre, who was in Grade 8, was cremated in a private ceremony after the church service.
Three other pupils, Marli Currie, Marnus Nagel and Roydon Olckers will be buried today.
Gauteng education spokesperson Steve Mabona said about 12 pupils from the school were still in hospital.
“Other learners were discharged and are recuperating at home. We wish them a speedy recovery,” Mabona said.
The school is expected to re-open on Monday.
Well wishers were yesterday still dropping off flowers, candles, memorabilia and praying at the school entrance.
Mabona said tents would be put up on the school’s grounds and used as temporary classrooms.
He said learners would be assisted with a catch-up plan and psycho-social services offered to the learners and teachers for as long as needed.