“Grieving Nation in Prayer”: Grade 3 Learners Pay Emotional Tribute to 12 Victims of Vaal Accident

• Grade 3 learners held a moving tribute by kneeling in prayer for 12 young victims of the Vaal accident, led by their educator, in a clip that went viral
• The tribute concluded with a heartfelt song that resonated deeply with South Africans viewers online
• The video sparked national conversations about compassion, empathy, and the importance of community support

In a heart-wrenching display of solidarity, Grade 3 learners have paid an emotional tribute to the 12 young victims of the Vaal accident.

A video circulating online since it was published on 20 January 2026 by social media user @liya_ndzibz showed the pupils kneeling in prayer, led by an educator, as they prayed for the families of the deceased children. The poignant moment ended with the learners singing a touching song in memory of their peers.

The accident, which occurred on January 19, 2026, claimed the lives of 12 school children who were on their way to school in a minibus taxi that collided with a truck in Vanderbijlpark. The nation has been left reeling, with President Cyril Ramaphosa leading the condolences, describing the incident as a "devastating blow."

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"Our hearts are heavy": Praise and worship at Vaal crash site moves SA

The learners' tribute has resonated with online users, who have been moved by the display of compassion and unity. The TikTok user @liya_ndzibz's video served as a reminder of the impact of the tragedy on the community and the nation at large.

As the nation mourns, questions are being raised about road safety and the regulation of scholar transport services. The South African Human Rights Commission had recently released a report highlighting concerns about safety and oversight in the sector.

SA is moved by the pupils’ gesture to 12 Vaal victims

The tribute has sparked an outpouring of support and condolences on social media, with users praising the school for teaching young learners the importance of compassion, empathy, and community. Many expressed how the video brought tears to their eyes, highlighting how even the youngest members of society are affected by such tragedies.

Jewel said:

"Jehovah shield our children under your wings🙏."

Caro wrote:

"God protect our children 🙏."

Susantembani stated:

"Glory to Jesus 🙌 Amen."

Ntombifikile Pikoko wrote:

"Lord, hear their prayers."

Lady Shygirl expressed:

"Lord God, please protect and watch over our kids🙏."

Tshegofatso Ayomi simply said:

"Ohhh, our kids, we thank you, teacher, 🙏."

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Sol Phenduka reacts to Vaal tragic accident: "This could happen to anyone"

Siza Shabangu replied:

"We need teachers like u in this world, who fear God, Father heal the world ❤️🙏."

Lndile commented:

"Thank you 🙏 for leading and teaching them about the power of prayer. The seed that you are planting will grow. Amen God bless you more🙏."

Watch the video below:

Other Briefly News stories about Vaal crash

• A video message from a concerned citizen has gone viral, sparking intense emotions and debate about the Vaal taxi crash that claimed the lives of 13 school children.
• A father opened up about losing his daughter, and he described the car accident scene.
• Another family member opened up about the Vaal crash following the Emfuleni Mayor's concern.
• Attention turned to the driver who was behind the wheel of the scholar transport during the car accident.

Source: Briefly News