Recent Tragic Incident during a School Trip
29 Jan 2024
It is with deep sorrow that we address the tragic incident that occurred on Saturday, January 20th, 2024, resulting in the unfortunate death of Latoya Temilton, a grade 7 student during a school trip to Wag ‘n Bietjie Resort in Witkoppen.
MEDIA STATEMENT
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
JESSI SUNKEL
29 JANUARY 2024
Condolences on the Recent Tragic Incident during a School Trip
It is with deep sorrow that we address the tragic incident that occurred on Saturday, January 20th, 2024, resulting in the unfortunate death of Latoya Temilton, a grade 7 student during a school trip to Wag ‘n Bietjie Resort in Witkoppen. The incident took place as part of a day trip organized by Laerskool Queenswood, and our thoughts and condolences go out to her friends and family.
We recognize the gravity of this situation, and our hearts are heavy with sympathy. The Gauteng Department of Education has appointed a law firm to conduct an independent investigation, and we fully support this effort to understand the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
SA AIA is dedicated to the promotion of safe and enriching out-of-the-classroom educational experiences, and we wish to work with all stakeholders to provide any assistance needed to prevent such incidents in the future and ensure the safety of students during these activities.
We understand the impact this incident may have on the community, facilities, facilitators, and schools The safety of participants in outdoor educational activities is of paramount importance, and any lapse in this regard is deeply regrettable.
Our organization has been proactive in activating our members around the topic of water safety. We believe that through collaboration, education, and a collective commitment to safety protocols, we can contribute to preventing such incidents in the future.
We hope that the investigation will provide answers to the family of Latoya Temilton. The incident has garnered attention on social media, with concerns expressed by the public, including notable figures like Anele Mododa. We share in these concerns and emphasize the need for a thorough investigation.
For further updates on this matter, we will be guided by the official investigation and will continue to express our condolences and support to all those affected.
About SA AIA:
SA AIA represents two distinct sectors within its membership: Individuals – students and those who are qualified and who operate with the Adventure Based Learning (ABL), LOTC, and Adventure Tourist Guiding industries – and businesses – that provide training, products, and services within these industries. As such, it facilitates the bringing together two of the main entities that play a role in developing regulatory frameworks namely individuals and businesses. SA AIA is a member driven association, striving to become a SAQA-registered professional body. Our mission is to collaborate with likeminded individuals, and organizations to unlock the economic, human, and environmental potential of the South African Adventure Industry through a process of professionalization.