IN PICS | Vanderbijlpark crash prayer: Trade unions, community light candles

Various trade unions have on Thursday gathered at the site of the Vanderbijlpark scholar transport accident for a candlelight prayer.

Fourteen learners lost their lives due to the collision involving the mini bus taxi carrying the learners and a truck.

The union members are calling for accountability, justice, and concrete action to ensure the safety of learners. 

Members of Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU), South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO), and the South African Democratic Teachers' Union (SADTU) and Progressive Women's Movement of South Africa are at the scene of the accident to pay their respects to the deceased school children.

Moipone Qhomane from the Progressive Women's Movement of South Africa said authorities must do more to ensure children are transported safely.

She added that those who are still in the hospital must not give up and wishes the healthcare workers strength.

"Let the candle symbolise remembrance and responsibility, may their light carry our commitment to protect children, to stand with workers and their families, and to build communities where safety, care, and justice prevail 

Qhomane also reiterated the union’s support for the families affected.

The photographs were captured by EWN's Sphamandla Dlamini.

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