At least 110 pupils from Tamaho Primary School in Katlehong were rushed to hospital after falling ill from a suspected foodborne illness on Wednesday.
Gauteng education spokesperson, Steve Mabona, said the pupils began vomiting and experiencing stomach cramps after eating samp at school during break time.
Mabona said the affected learners were rushed to various clinics and hospitals for immediate medical attention.
“All 110 learners were hospitalised following the incident, with 98 learners subsequently discharged after receiving medical treatment. Twelve learners remain in the hospital under medical supervision as healthcare providers continue to monitor their condition,” said Mabona.
Meanwhile, MEC for education Matome Chiloane expressed concern over the recurrence of such incidents at Gauteng schools.
“It is alarming to witness such cases of foodborne illness affecting our learners. The safety and wellbeing of our learners is our highest priority, and we are committed to working closely with health authorities to understand and address the root causes of these incidents. We wish all recovering learners a speedy return to good health,” he said said
Mabona said the Gauteng department of education in partnership with the Gauteng department of health were actively monitoring the situation and will provide additional information as the investigation proceeds.
He added that the department was committed to ensuring a safe and healthy environment for all learners and will provide psycho-social support to the affected learners, families and the school community.
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