The Vanderbijlpark scholar transport crash has left families and school communities in mourning across the Vaal. Gauteng Education confirmed the names of 12 learners who died after a scholar transport vehicle collided head-on with a truck on Monday, 19 January 2026.
Names of 12 children killed in crash revealed
Gauteng Education released the identities of the 12 learners, spanning Grades 1 to 11 who were in the Vanderbijlpark scholar transport crash:
- Buhle Radebe, Grade 11, Hoërskool Vanderbijlpark
- Bokamoso Mokhobo, Grade 8, Hoërskool Vanderbijlpark
- Sibongile Madonsela, Grade 10, Hoërskool Vanderbijlpark
- Leano Moiloa, Grade 8, Vaal High School
- Lesego Sefatsa, Grade 2, Oakwood Primary School
- Letlotlo Katlego Makwe, Grade 2, Vaal Triangle Primary School
- Ofentse Jayden Vinger, Grade 1, Oliver Lodge Primary School
- Lindokuhle Mabaso, Grade 5, Noordhoek Primary School
- Pheello Motaung, Grade 11, El-Shaddai Christian School
- Puleng Maphalla, Grade 11, El-Shaddai Christian School
- Naledi Motsapi, Grade 10, El-Shaddai Christian School
- Bohlale Lekekela, Grade 1, El-Shaddai Christian School
What officials said after the Vanderbijlpark scholar transport crash
Gauteng Education issued a message of condolence following the release of names. The department said, “Your dreams, smiles and potential will forever remain part of our collective memory. You will always be remembered, honoured and loved.”
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane also urged stricter vigilance around scholar transport services, with police investigating the circumstances.
Gauteng Education listed spokesperson details for further information: Steve Mabona, 072 574 3860.
Court process and investigation updates on the Vanderbijlpark scholar transport crash
Officials reported a head-on collision between the scholar transport vehicle and a truck.
Authorities initially reported 13 deaths, then revised the toll to 12 learners, howerve, as of earlier today, the death toll increased to 14.
Charges linked to the case
Police arrested the 22-year-old driver after hospital discharge, according to reporting. Authorities said prosecutors plan 12 counts of culpable homicide plus reckless and negligent driving charges.
Officials also raised concerns about an expired permit for operating the minibus.
Road safety context in South Africa
Crashes involving children intensify public pressure for safer school transport oversight. National road death figures show persistent risk on South African roads.
The Road Traffic Management Corporation reported 2 403 road fatalities between January and March 2025, down from 2 818 during the same period in 2024.
Parents often rely on private operators for school runs. Reporting after the crash renewed focus on vehicle roadworthiness, driver licensing, and enforcement.
Practical steps for parents and schools
Families want action, not statements. These checks support safer daily school trips.
Quick vetting checklist for scholar transport services:
- Ask for a valid Professional Driving Permit and confirm expiry dates
- Request proof of vehicle roadworthy testing and service history
- Confirm seat count, seatbelt access, and loading limits
- Ask for operator registration details and a clear route plan
- Save emergency contacts for the driver and operator office
Also Read: Vaal Scholar Transport Crash Claims Two More Lives: Death Toll At 14
