A food poisoning scare disrupted a matric revision programme in Whittlesea after dozens of learners fell ill and were rushed to hospital, raising concerns about food safety at school camps.
The incident occurred on 3 May 2026 at Ekuphumleni High School, where Grade 12 learners had gathered for an intensive revision programme aimed at improving their academic performance ahead of the midyear examinations. According to the Eastern Cape Department of Education, 39 learners began experiencing symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea shortly after eating supper at around 18:00.
The affected learners were part of a larger group of 194 matric candidates attending the Learner Attainment Improvement Strategy (LAIS) Grade 12 Level 1 and 2 incubation programme. The initiative forms part of a broader effort by the department to support learners in underperforming subjects and boost overall pass rates.
Ekuphumleni High School was one of seven revision centres operating within the Komani Circuit Management area from 30 April to 3 May 2026. These camps brought together learners from several schools across the Chris Hani East Education District, including Ekuphumleni, Funda, Zolani, Nompumelelo, and Zamokuhle high schools.
Emergency services responded swiftly to the situation, transporting the 39 affected learners to Hewu Hospital for medical attention. Fortunately, most of the learners recovered quickly. The Department of Education confirmed that 37 of them were treated and discharged after a few hours of observation on the same night. They were able to return to the revision camp without further complications.
Two learners, however, required additional care and were admitted for further monitoring. One learner was observed for piles, while the other received treatment for what was described as a stomach bug. Both were discharged the following day, on 4 May, at around midday.
In response to the incident, the Department of Health collected samples of the food served to the learners for laboratory testing. Authorities are working to determine whether the illness was caused by contaminated food or another factor. At this stage, the exact cause of the outbreak has not yet been confirmed.
Both the Departments of Health and Education have assured the public that they are closely monitoring the situation. They are also keeping a watchful eye on all learners who attended the programme, while awaiting the results of the food tests.
The incident has sparked concern among parents and the broader community, particularly regarding food handling and hygiene standards at school-hosted events. While the quick recovery of most learners is reassuring, the situation highlights the importance of strict safety measures when catering for large groups.
Despite the scare, education officials have reiterated the importance of revision programmes such as the LAIS initiative, which play a critical role in preparing learners for key examinations. Further updates are expected once the investigation into the cause of the illness is complete.
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