GDE appoints independent law firm to probe Grade R pupil’s death

Gauteng education MEC Matome Chiloane introduced the Independent Investigative Law Firm to the family of Manqoba Mnisi, the Grade R pupil from Bernard Isaacs Primary School. Picture: Supplied/GDE The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has appointed an independent investigative law firm to probe the circumstances surrounding the death of Grade R pupil Manqoba Mnisi at Bernard Isaacs Primary School in Coronationville, Johannesburg. It is alleged that earlier in February, the young boy was left unattended when he attempted to climb out of a classroom window, became trapped, and suffocated.

Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane, on Thursday, formally introduced Buthelezi-Vilakazi Incorporated as the firm mandated to conduct the investigation. Manqoba Mnisi died on 2 February 2026, following an incident that occurred on the school premises. “The unclear details surrounding the learner’s death prompted the Gauteng Department of Education to institute an independent investigation to establish the full facts surrounding the matter,” the department said.

As part of the process, Chiloane first met with the Mnisi family, where he formally introduced the law firm. He then visited Bernard Isaacs Primary School in Coronationville to introduce the firm to the School Management Team (SMT) and the school governing body. The appointed firm has been given two weeks to conduct its investigation and submit a report containing findings and recommendations.

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During the engagements, Chiloane outlined the purpose, terms of reference and scope of the investigation. The firm will “conduct an investigation into the allegations surrounding Manqoba Mnisi’s death” and consult with the district director, circuit manager, cluster leader, the principal, teacher(s), the general assistant, the pupil’s parent(s), security officers, community members mentioned, pupils at the school and any other relevant witnesses. The investigation must produce “clear findings which will complement specific recommendations” related to education laws, the South African Schools Act (SASA), the Employment of Educators Act (EE Act), the Children’s Act and any other applicable legislation.

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