The deputy vice-chancellor of the North-West University's (NWUs) campus in Vanderbijlpark, Prof Linda du Plessis, has extended a message of condolences and support after the tragedy at Hoërskool Driehoek on Friday, 1 February 2019:

We are deeply shocked by the tragedy that occurred at Hoërskool Driehoek in Vanderbijlpark. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to the school and the families of those who lost their lives. Our best wishes for the speedy recovery of those who have been injured and traumatised. The NWU has a long and cherished relationship with the staff members and learners at Hoekies and we stand with them during this trying time. Staff from the Healthcare Centre on our campus in  assisted on the scene and the trauma-councillors on the campus are furthermore standing by to assist any of the learners, staff members and their loved ones.

It is in times like these that we have to be strong for our community and lift those up who were affected by this terrible tragedy. May we take hands, open our hearts and keep our friends at Hoërskool Driehoek in our prayers.

* The high school is located nearby the Vanderbijlpark Campus. Many current students and alumni from the university completed their secondary education at Hoërskool Driehoek while the school employs a number of NWU alumni.