The funeral service of six Riebeeckstad High School learners is under way at different venues and halls in Welkom on Saturday (17/2). These learners lost their lives on Tuesday, 6 February when the bus they were travelling in overturned on the R70 between Ventersburg and Senekal, 30km from Ventersburg.

Relebohile Nteo’s funeral is attended by the MEC of Education, Makalo Mohale, at the Multipurpose Centre in Thabong. Tlotlisang Mokotjo’s funeral is attended by the MEC of Destea, Thabo Meeko, at the Kutlwanong High School Hall in Odendaalsrus.

“This is one wound that does not ever heal, but cherish and treasure the wonderful memories you have of those beautiful souls that we have lost. At this very moment, we have many questions, but no answers and we start questioning our creator,” said Free State Premier Mxolisi Dukwana at the memorial service on Thursday (15/2) at the Kingdom Ministries in Welkom.

“Turn this pain into positive energy and work hard on your studies in their memory,” he said to the learners in attendance.

Lerato Keketsi’s funeral is attended by the Director of Inclusive Education, Eunice Qwelane, at the Hani Park Primary School Hall in Thabong. Katleho Semelo’s funeral is attended by the Director of the Lejweleputsa Education District, Phaello Zonke. Oagile Gailele’s funeral is attended by the MEC of Community Safety, Police, Roads, and Transport. It is unclear who is attending Blessing Makansela's funeral and where it is taking place.

A total of 58 learners were travelling from an all-girls sports event when the accident occurred. The sports event was in Moolmanshoek near Rosendal and they were returning to Riebeeckstad in Welkom.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame cg