By Chris Totobela and Luvuyo Mjekula
It was supposed to be one of the happiest days of her life.
But sadly, things turned out differently for Linomtha Skade, a 12-year-old Extension 9 schoolgirl, who tragically passed away during a school outing at a resort in Makhanda three weeks ago.
The unfortunate incident apparently occurred during a day trip organised by the NV Cewu Primary School, where Linomtha was a grade 7 learner.
Details of the tragedy have been sketchy, with the girl’s family reportedly still searching for answers.
Reports on social media suggested that the learners swam unsupervised at the resort.
Eastern Cape basic education spokesperson Mali Mtima has confirmed the incident.
Mtima told Grocott’s Mail that the department has launched an investigation into the incident. “As the department, we are aware of this matter – it was reported to us by the district and the school. The district has assembled a team that will investigate the matter.”
According to Mtima, the investigation would ascertain whether or not there was negligence on the part of teachers.
He added: “Also, there were psychologists activated to [provide counselling]to those learners who experienced this. Thus far, the district is handling the matter.”
Meanwhile, Linomtha was laid to rest two weeks ago, and Makhandans turned out in their numbers to bid her farewell.
Mourners gathered at the fledgling netball star’s family home early in the morning of Saturday, 18 November, before proceeding to the Extension 9 community hall, where her final service took place.
The sad and moving service saw her schoolmates, teammates and friends struggling to bear the sight of her tiny coffin.
Speaking on behalf of the school, Miss Nomathamsanqa Skweyiya described Linomtha as a bubbly child, intelligent and cooperative: “Linomtha was a unique child, and she was one of the intelligent students in her grade. She took part in all the activities that we usually organised in class.”
Skweyiya also emphasised the importance of allowing children to be what they want and not restricting them.
Makhanda Angels Netball Club’s Thimna Skade told the mourners how important Linomtha was in their team: “Linomtha was our best wing attacker, and we had so much faith in her ability. She liked people so much, and there was never a dull moment when she was around. This is a huge blow to us as we were still looking forward to her services.”
Speaking to Grocott’s Mail just after the service, African Connection Women FC senior team captain Lamla Maloni sent her condolences to the family: “We have lost a good and promising player with a bright future ahead of her. She was one of the three players who were earmarked for promotion to the first team next year. Our heartfelt condolences go to her family, friends, relatives and schoolmates.”
Preaching during the service, Reverend Mninikhaya Makhumsha appealed to the teachers to be extra careful and vigilant when engaging in such outings. “It is sad to lose such a very young soul in this manner,” said Makhumsha.
The procession headed to the graveyard.
