Remembering the Vaal’s Fallen Students

Gauteng MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane, described the devastating loss as a moment “when words fail us.” Photo: Supplied

South Africa remains in deep mourning following the fatal scholar transport accident in Vanderbijlpark that claimed the lives of 14 schoolchildren earlier this week. On Friday, family members, government officials and community leaders gathered at the Saul Tsotetsi Sports Ground in Sebokeng for a moving memorial service to honour the lives lost in the crash.

Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Matome Chiloane, who delivered the tribute, described the devastating loss as a moment “when words fail us” and spoke directly to the anguish felt by families, friends and the wider community. He painted a poignant picture of that morning — when children left home full of hope for the day, never to return.

The accident occurred on Monday, 19 January 2026, when a private scholar transport vehicle carrying learners to various schools in the Vaal collided with a side-tipper truck on Fred Droste Road near Vanderbijlpark. Eleven children were pronounced dead at the scene, and three more later died in hospital, bringing the total to 14.

MEC Chiloane read the names of all 14 children, representing a range of ages from Grade 1 to Grade 11, emphasising that each child had a unique personality, dreamed of a future and will never be forgotten. He highlighted that the tragedy affected seven schools across the region and left classrooms and families bereft.

The 22‑year‑old driver of the scholar transport vehicle, Ayanda Dludla, appeared in the Vanderbijlpark Magistrate’s Court on 22 January 2026. Photo: Supplied

Court Proceedings and Bail Abandoned

In related developments, the 22‑year‑old driver of the scholar transport vehicle, Ayanda Dludla, appeared in the Vanderbijlpark Magistrate’s Court on 22 January 2026. Dludla faces 14 counts of murder, three counts of attempted murder, and multiple traffic‑related charges including driving without a valid professional permit and operating an unlicensed vehicle.

In a notable courtroom turn, Dludla abandoned his bid for bail and will remain in custody. The case has now been postponed to 5 March 2026 to allow further investigations, including the finalisation of witness statements and forensic evidence.

Family members and legal observers said the bail decision, made without opposition from the State, reflected the gravity of the charges and the strength of the evidence. National Prosecuting Authority officials explained that initial charges of culpable homicide were upgraded to murder based on prima facie evidence suggesting intent and serious negligence.

Outside the courtroom, relatives of the victims expressed both sorrow and frustration, insisting accountability must extend beyond the driver to those who owned and maintained the vehicle. Themba Radebe, speaking on behalf of several families, said the crash should serve as a stark warning to scholar transport operators and vehicle owners about roadworthiness and compliance.

The memorial service in Sebokeng brought together community leaders, government officials, educators, and fellow learners in solidarity. Photo: Supplied

A Community in Grief and Demand for Change

The memorial service in Sebokeng brought together community leaders, government officials, educators, and fellow learners in solidarity. Gauteng Premier Mr. Panyaza Lesufi and other dignitaries offered support to the bereaved families. Throughout the ceremony, there was a strong message of unity and commitment to preventing future tragedies.

MEC Chiloane reiterated that the government will tighten oversight of the scholar transport system, introduce rigorous vehicle inspections, and enforce compliance with safety standards. He called on parents and communities to participate in monitoring transport services and reporting unsafe practices.

As South Africa continues to grieve, the focus remains on healing, justice and systemic reforms to ensure the safety of learners on their way to school. Fourteen young lives were lost — but their memory is spurring a renewed urgency to protect all children on the nation’s roads