SEBOKENG, GAUTENG — Grief and heartbreak filled the Saul Tsotetsi Multipurpose Centre in Sebokeng as families, community members, learners, and government officials gathered to bid a final farewell to three young lives lost in the tragic Vanderbijlpark scholar transport accident. The joint funeral service, held on Saturday, 25 January 2026, honoured Thato Moetji, Ofentse Vinger, and Bokamoso Mokhobo — among the 14 children who died in the devastating R553 crash earlier this month.
The accident, which occurred on 19 January, sent shockwaves through the Emfuleni community and the country at large, reigniting urgent conversations around scholar transport safety. As mourners arrived at the multipurpose centre, sombre hymns, prayers, and tears reflected the depth of pain felt by families whose children never made it home from school.
The atmosphere inside the hall was heavy with sorrow. Parents, classmates, and relatives wept openly as small coffins were displayed at the front of the venue, a painful reminder of lives cut tragically short. Several mourners struggled to cope with the overwhelming grief. Paramedics were called to assist a parent who collapsed during the service, while learners clung to one another, crying uncontrollably as they said goodbye to their classmates.
Tributes poured in as families took turns at the podium to share memories of the children they loved so deeply. Ofentse Vinger’s cousin read a moving tribute from his mother, who spoke of the six precious years she spent nurturing her son. She recalled praying endlessly for his success and future, never imagining that their time together would be so brief.
Family games
Bokamoso Mokhobo’s uncle remembered her as a spirited and courageous young girl who was never afraid to stand up for herself. He shared how she once called him after transferring schools to report bullying, and how his encouragement helped her find her strength. Her cousin, Lesedi Mokhobo, described Bokamoso as joyful, bubbly, and full of life, saying she brought laughter and warmth into every home she entered and would always be remembered for her infectious smile and lively dance moves.
Thato Moetji’s grandfather delivered a heartfelt tribute on behalf of the family, expressing gratitude for the support shown by the community and government. He called on God to show mercy to the nation and to receive the children into His loving arms, offering comfort to families still grappling with unimaginable loss.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, who attended the funeral, also addressed mourners. He emphasised the need for collaboration between government and the private sector to improve not only scholar transport but the broader education system. Lesufi noted that strengthening township schools could reduce the need for learners to travel long distances, potentially preventing future tragedies.
As the service drew to a close, the pain remained raw, but so did the unity. The Sebokeng community stood together in grief, vowing to honour the memory of the young victims by continuing to demand safer roads, safer transport, and a safer future for South Africa’s children