Tragic death of Gauteng Grade 10 learner linked to spaza shop snacks
A death of a Gauteng Grade 10 learner from Orange Farm Secondary School has been linked to snacks she allegedly bought from a spaza shop near her home.
Image: File: David Ritchie
The death of a Gauteng Grade 10 learner from Orange Farm Secondary School has been linked to snacks she allegedly bought from a spaza shop near her home.
The learner died on Saturday, June 28, 2025.
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane said shortly after eating the snacks, the girl fell ill and was rushed to a local clinic where she was certified dead.
The incident was reported to the school on Monday, July 1, 2025.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, the school community and all those affected by this tragic incident,” said Chiloane.
Following the incident, Chiloane called for increased vigilance and urged parents, learners, and communities to desist from buying food items from unauthorised spaza shops or unregulated vendors, as such food items continue to pose serious health risks.
“It is unfortunate that we are still experiencing tragic outcomes from the consumption of unauthorised or unverified food items. We urge communities to be more cautious, and protect our children from avoidable harm, especially from unauthorised spaza shops,” added MEC Chiloane.
Last month, a Grade 11 learner from Lesedi Secondary School in Lethabong, Pretoria East was fatally stabbed by a schoolmate.
Chiloane said that the attack was allegedly perpetrated by a Grade 12 learner, who had not attended school that day.
According to preliminary reports, the boy arrived at the school after hours, just as students were preparing to board their scholar transport and proceeded to stab the Grade 11 learner just outside the school yard.
The victim was subsequently rushed to Lethabong Healthcare Clinic, where he was certified dead-on arrival.
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