The North West Department of Education has noted a food poisoning incident involving learners from Huhudi Secondary School in Ganyesa, which occurred on the evening of 12 June 2026.

According to a report received from the Principal and School Governing Body, 8 learners from Grade 12E experienced headaches, stomach aches and dizziness after consuming snacks purchased from an outside tuckshop during the evening class break between 17h00 and 18h00.

The learners were assisted immediately by teachers on duty, who transported them to the nearest clinic and later to the local hospital for emergency medical intervention. All 8 learners were admitted for treatment and monitoring. One learner, Mope Dikgakamatso, has since been discharged and has returned to school. The remaining learners remain under medical care and their condition is being closely monitored by the school, parents and health officials.

The Department condemns the sale of unsafe food to learners and wishes the affected learners a speedy recovery. The safety and wellbeing of our learners remain our top priority.

The Department, in collaboration with the Department of Health, has initiated an investigation into the incident. The source of the snacks has been identified and relevant authorities will take necessary action to prevent a recurrence.

Parents and the school community are urged to remain calm. Learners are reminded not to purchase food from unregistered or unregulated vendors.
The Department will provide regular updates as more information becomes available.

North West Department of Education – Communication Directorate:
Director of Communication | Dr Elias Malindi | 072 892 8399
Spokesperson | Mr Vuyo Mantshule | 073 217 7335