The Gauteng Department of Education has taken the decision to temporarily close Hoërskool Driehoek in Vanderbijlpark after a structural collapse claimed the lives of three pupils on Friday morning.

According to Gauteng MEC for education, Panyaza Lesufi, a walkway connecting the main school building to other classrooms collapsed just after 8:00am on Friday.

Lesufi confirmed that three pupils, two boys and a girl, died while the collapse, which trapped several students, also left more than 20 injured.  

Classes at the school have been cancelled for the day, and pupils are expected to be provided with counselling.

The MEC noted that despite the building being 45-years-old, he could not pass judgment on the quality of the structure.

Ward councillor Phillip Nothnagel told News24 that Structural engineers were called to the scene together with building inspectors.

“They assessed the place to ensure that it is safe,” he said.

Lesufi added that the school was now a crime scene and police have taken over.

“We want to thank the leadership of the school for opening their hearts and gates, and most importantly for allowing our law enforcement agencies to perform their function.”

–EWN, ENCA, News24