​Rofhiwa Marubini 
Gauteng MEC for Education, Panyaza Lesufi has initiated an investigation following allegations of food poisoning at the MH Baloyi Seconday School in Mabopane, Tshwane. 
MEC Lesufi together visited the school on Thursday, morning where more than 203 learners experienced stomach cramps and were rushed to healthcare facilities in the area to receive medical attention. 
The learners were subsequently discharged from the hospitals in the evening. 
It is alledged that learners consumed food during their lunch break on Tuesday, 16 March 2021, and the school day ended without any learner complaining about a stomach bug. 
On Wednesday, 17 March 2021, several learners from the same classroom complained about having a stomach bug and some said they were unable to sleep the previous night.
During his visit, MEC Lesufi engaged with the school management and district officials on the incident. He also interacted with learners and apologised for the ordeal. 
"What happened yesterday is just unfortunate. I met with the learners and they explained what happened, I also met with the people who were cooking, "said Lesufi.
MEC Lesufi together with the management of the school and the district have taken samples to laboratories to get tested and arewaiting for the results.
"We have advised that the suspicious food must not be served, only fruits, porridge and other ready-made food must be served until we get the results which will assist us on a way forward," added Lesufi.