The three Vryburg High School learners who tragically lost their lives in a road accident were laid to rest on Saturday, 18 April 2026, at Matshelapan Cemetery in Delareyville and Atamelang Cemetery, bringing a heartbreaking chapter to a close for their families, school, and wider community.
The learners were involved in a fatal collision on 8 April 2026, when the vehicle transporting four students from Delareyville to Vryburg collided head-on with a truck. The impact claimed the lives of two learners and the driver at the scene. The fourth learner survived the crash initially but later succumbed to injuries in hospital.
The funerals of Mathope Kitso Lopang and Mtshengu Remofiloe Mbalenhle were marked by deep emotion, with mourners gathering in large numbers to honour the young lives lost. A moving tribute on behalf of Vryburg High School was delivered by Ma’am Mokebe, who represented the school principal. She was accompanied by the hostel mother, a learner representative, and a close school friend of the deceased.
Speaking to grieving families and attendees, Ma’am Mokebe described the overwhelming sorrow felt by the school community while also reflecting on the lasting impact the learners had made during their time at the institution.
“We stand together under the weight of grief, yet also in profound gratitude for two lives that touched Vryburg High School and left an imprint that will not fade,” she said.
She praised both learners for their discipline, humility, and willingness to support others. According to her, they were respected not only for their academic efforts but also for their character and kindness towards fellow learners.
Mathope Kitso Lopang was remembered as a dedicated student and a natural leader. Ma’am Mokebe highlighted her belief that education extended beyond academics, noting that Mathope understood the importance of building character. She also acknowledged her leadership role as captain of the under-15 hockey team, describing her as someone who led through consistency, responsibility, and encouragement.
“Mathope reminded us that leadership is often found in consistency, showing up, doing the work, and lifting others as you rise,” she said.
Mtshengu Remofiloe Mbalenhle was remembered for her warmth and positive presence within the school environment. She was described as a learner who brought light wherever she went and contributed meaningfully both in and outside the classroom. Whether participating in sports, academics, or cultural activities, she was known for her enthusiasm and kindness.
“She had a generosity of spirit that made our school a warmer place,” Ma’am Mokebe said. “She taught us that kindness is not a weakness, but a strength that binds a school community together.”
Addressing the bereaved families directly, she expressed the school’s shared pain and extended condolences on behalf of staff and learners. She acknowledged the empty desks left behind and the silence now felt in classrooms that were once filled with their voices.
“To the Lopang and Mtshengu families, Vryburg High School shares in your sorrow,” she said. “Yet their influence remains in the friends they encouraged, the teachers they inspired, and the standard of integrity they set.”
She concluded her tribute by urging current learners to honour the memory of their peers through positive action, discipline, and compassion.
The Superintendent General of the North West Department of Education, Mr Lengane Bogatsu, also extended condolences to the families. He acknowledged the role schools play in caring for learners in place of parents during school hours.
“We are extremely sad that at this time we part ways with our learners in a different way than the normal way of them graduating to join tertiary education,” he said.
The funerals ended in reflection, unity, and mourning, as the community said farewell to three young lives gone too soon.
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