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The Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the Vaal University of Technology (VUT), Professor Khehla Ndlovu, on behalf of Council, Management, staff and students, conveys his deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the families, friends and school communities affected by the tragic road accident in Vanderbijlpark that has claimed the lives of 13 school pupils.

The accident, which involved a scholar transport minibus and occurred while learners were on their way to school, has sent shockwaves through communities locally and nationally. Several other learners remain hospitalised, with some reported to be in critical condition, deepening the collective grief felt across the country.

This devastating loss has profoundly shaken the broader community within which VUT exists and serves. The young lives lost formed part of a shared social fabric that interacts with the University through education, aspiration and community life. Their passing is therefore felt deeply by the institution.

Beyond this specific tragedy, the Vice-Chancellor expresses grave concern about the continued carnage on South Africa’s roads, particularly incidents involving scholar transport. Official figures released by the Department of Transport indicate that more than 11 000 people lost their lives on South African roads in 2025, underscoring an ongoing national crisis that demands renewed urgency, accountability and collective action to protect the most vulnerable road users, especially children.

In response to this tragedy, and in recognition of the emotional and psychological toll on affected families and schools, the University has activated its Student Counselling and Support services. VUT will make counselling and psychosocial support available to bereaved families, learners and community members who may require individual counselling or group debriefing during this difficult period.

The University stands in solidarity with the bereaved and aligns itself with national calls from government and society for improved road safety, stricter enforcement and a renewed culture of responsibility on the country’s roads. VUT calls on all members of the community to honour the lives lost through unity, compassion and sustained commitment to safeguarding human life.

Issued by Vaal University of Technology