GRADE 5 LEARNER PASSED AWAY AFTER GOALPOST COLLAPSES AT TEMBISA SCHOOL

Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane has expressed deep sadness following the tragic death of a 10-year-old Grade 5 learner from Reagile Primary School in the Winnie Mandela section of Tembisa.

The incident occurred on Monday, 16 February 2026, during school break time on the school premises.

According to preliminary information from the Gauteng Department of Education, a group of learners were playing around the soccer goal posts when one of the goal structures reportedly fell onto the child.

The learner sustained severe injuries.

Paramedics were called to the school and arrived approximately 20 minutes later. Despite attempts to resuscitate him, the learner was declared dead at the scene.

Police have opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, while the department has also launched an internal enquiry.

“The Department is deeply saddened by this tragic incident. We wish to convey our heartfelt condolences to the learner’s family, fellow learners, educators, and the entire school community,” said Chiloane.

The MEC is expected to visit the learner’s family in Tembisa on Wednesday afternoon to offer condolences and support.