By Phenyo Selinda
19 August 2024 – Vanderbijlpark, South Africa
North-West University (NWU) has been shaken by the tragic loss of six students following a fatal accident in the early hours of Sunday, 18 August 2024. The incident, which took place approximately 8 kilometres from Moahi Village Residence, claimed the lives of six students, with two others currently in a stable condition in hospital.
The victims of this heart-wrenching accident have been identified as:
- Sinethemba Tshabalale (Faculty of Education, First Year)
- Kananelo Mokhele (Faculty of Humanities, Second Year)
- Katlego Ramodibe (Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences, Second Year)
- Olwethu Mpilenhle Ntsane Khojane (Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences, Second Year)
- Simphiwe Nzimande (Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences, First Year)
- Tshepo Maboa (Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences, First Year)
Two other students, Zuko Maphisa (Faculty of Humanities, Second Year) and Thembile Mbeleka (Faculty of Education, Second Year), remain in hospital where they are being treated for their injuries.
In response to this tragedy, the Economic Freedom Fighters Students Command (EFFSC) at NWU Vaal Campus issued a heartfelt statement expressing their sorrow and solidarity with the university community. The EFFSC conveyed their deepest condolences to the families, friends, and staff affected by this loss, emphasizing the profound impact this tragedy has had on the campus.
“We stand in solidarity with the families, friends, students, and staff of North West University as we convey our heartfelt condolences to the families of the students who lost their lives. This tragedy has left the North West University Vaal Campus community in shock and grief. We convey our heartfelt condolences and wish everyone strength during this difficult time,” the statement read.
The EFFSC also offered words of comfort, urging those who are grieving to find solace in the support of the community. “To those who are grieving, we say: you are not alone. We are here for you, and we will walk this journey with you. May you find solace in the love and support that surrounds you. May you find strength in the memories and moments you shared with your loved ones.”
NWU’s Executive Director for Student Life and Acting DVC for Vanderbijlpark Campus Operations, Professor Sibusiso Chalufu, also expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences to the families and friends of the deceased. “Our thoughts are with the families, friends, and the entire NWU community during this difficult time. We urge all affected staff and students to seek support from the Student Counselling and Development services available on campus.”
In an emotional display of unity and support, students gathered at the Student Centre today to uplift each other and share in the collective grief. The gathering provided a space for students to console one another, offering words of encouragement and solidarity. Many shared memories of the departed students, reflecting on the impact they had on the community.
The university has called on its community to come together in this time of mourning, offering support and assistance to those in need. A memorial service is expected to be announced in the coming days as the campus continues to reel from the loss of these young lives.
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