In a devastating incident that has sent shockwaves through the education community, three teachers lost their lives and two others were critically injured in a road accident near Ngqeleni, close to Mthatha in the Eastern Cape. The crash occurred on the morning of Tuesday, 24 June 2025, when the teachers were en route to school using a bakkie commonly used as transport in rural areas.
Eastern Cape Department of Transport spokesperson, Unathi Binqose, confirmed the tragic event and expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life. He described the accident as “a very unfortunate and tragic incident that claimed the lives of three people – individuals who were on their way to fulfil their duties as educators and who held an important place in society.”
While the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation, preliminary information suggests that the vehicle may have lost control along the route. However, officials at the scene have not released further details, including the identities of the deceased or the condition of the critically injured survivors.
Emergency services responded promptly to the scene in an attempt to provide urgent medical assistance and save as many lives as possible. Binqose emphasized the urgency and sensitivity of the situation, stating, “It is still an active scene. Our primary responsibility now is to save as many lives as possible.”
The news has sparked concern over the safety of educators who often rely on inadequate or informal transport options, particularly in rural parts of the Eastern Cape. Many teachers in remote areas are forced to use private or communal transport due to the lack of reliable public transit infrastructure. The tragedy highlights the ongoing challenges faced by those serving in underserved and far-flung communities, where dangerous roads and poorly maintained vehicles are a daily reality.South African travel guides
As investigations continue, the Department of Transport and local authorities are expected to release more information regarding the cause of the accident and the identities of those involved. The Department of Education is also likely to provide support to the affected schools and families, who are now left to deal with the sudden and painful loss.
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Messages of condolences have begun pouring in from fellow educators, students, and community members, all mourning the loss of lives dedicated to shaping the future of South Africa through teaching.Mzansi travel recommendations
This accident follows a troubling trend of road fatalities in the province and raises renewed questions about the safety of rural transport networks. Road safety advocates are once again calling for stricter regulations and better transport solutions for public servants, especially in areas where reliable infrastructure is lacking.
As the community grieves, the lives of three educators — who set out to teach and inspire — have instead become a tragic reminder of the risks faced by those working in some of South Africa’s most remote corners.
