The Gauteng Department of Education wishes to confirm that the death toll in the tragic scholar transport incident in Vanderbijlpark has risen to 13 learners

The Gauteng Department of Education wishes to confirm that the death toll in the tragic scholar transport incident that occurred on Monday, 19 January 2026, in Vanderbijlpark has risen to 13 learners.

At the time of issuing the earlier statement, 12 learner fatalities had been confirmed. A further learner has since succumbed to injuries, bringing the total number of confirmed deaths to 13.

All information remains preliminary as investigations continue. The Gauteng Department of Education extends its deepest condolences to the affected families, learners, and school communities during this extremely difficult time.

For more information, contact the Gauteng Department of Education’s Spokesperson, Steve Mabona on 072 574 3860 or Spokesperson for Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane, Xolani Mkhwemtse on 084 513 9285.

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Issued by the Gauteng Department of Education