This is according to the spokesperson of the Provincial Department of Health, Mondli Mvambi, who further said all kids have been accounted for.

Several learners were initially trapped inside the school’s hostel. An eyewitness told OFM News he could hear children screaming and windows breaking as they were freed after the burglar bars were removed.

The school’s principal, Daniel McPherson, has confirmed to OFM News that they managed to get everyone out and that no major injuries were reported. Out of a total of 135 students who stay at the hostel, 9 have been transported to the Pelonomi Hospital and the remaining 126 stayed at the school.

Another eyewitness described how the fire started at the house of the hostel parent, Nathan du Plessis, and then spread to the adjacent school hostel. The house is in ruins.

The Mangaung Fire Brigade was still busy putting out the fire late Friday night and securing the area. The cause of the fire and damage to the hostel cannot be determined at this stage.

Former councillor, Rassie Erasmus, said he has been a hostel parent at Dr Blok Secondary School for ten years. He is saddened by the loss of historical value and hopes the community will come together to assist those who have suffered damages.

OFM News/Cathy Dlodlo and Corné Greyvenstein