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Mashudu Mambo/Gibson Mhaka
A suspected food poisoning incident has hit Riverdale Academy, a private school in Hillside suburb in Bulawayo, amid revelations that dozens of pupils were hospitalised due to stomach cramps after attending a dinner event on Saturday.
So disturbing were reports that the suspected food poisoning incident at the school has affected not only pupils but also some parents who attended the dinner event.
Several parents have also been reportedly hospitalised due to stomach cramps and other symptoms associated with food-borne illness.
According to parents who spoke to B-Metro and preferred anonymity, their children allegedly began vomiting and complaining of stomach cramps after returning home from the dinner party.
“On Saturday, my son attended a dinner party at the school. Afterward, he began experiencing severe stomach cramps and vomiting.
“He became so weak that we had to rush him to the hospital, where he was admitted and given IV fluids.
“At first, I thought he was the only one affected, but then I heard from the school’s WhatsApp group that many other parents were facing similar situations with their children,” the parent said.
The parent expressed deep dissatisfaction with the school authorities’ handling of the matter.
He said as parents they felt that the school’s response was inadequate, lacking transparency, and failed to address their concerns promptly.
“The incident occurred on Saturday, and as of today (Thursday), the school has yet to release a comprehensive report regarding the near-fatal event involving our children. Parents are now demanding an independent investigation to uncover the truth behind the incident.
“We are deeply concerned by the school’s lack of transparency and responsiveness to this serious matter. The failure to provide timely and detailed information has eroded our trust in the school’s ability to ensure the safety and well-being of our children,” fumed the parent.
Another parent stated that she has lost a lot of money trying to get her daughter treated.
“My daughter’s condition was so critical after the party that I had to borrow money from friends and relatives to afford treatment at a reputable hospital. The incident has left me in significant debt.
“I believe the school must take immediate action, as numerous students and parents are currently hospitalised.
“The financial burden and emotional distress caused by this incident are immense, and it is imperative that the school takes responsibility for its negligence,” she said.
“We are extremely distressed by this incident and are worried about the potential long-term health implications for our child. We believe that the school has a responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of all students, and we are deeply disappointed that this incident has occurred,” fumed another parent.
However, another parent speculated that the incident may have been caused by poor hygiene practices on the part of the caterers.
She emphasised the importance of rigorous food safety standards, especially in large-scale events like school parties.
“I suspect that the incident was a case of food poisoning, possibly caused by rust from the cooking pots or the misuse of baking soda.
“We demand a full refund from the school and call for strict action against the caterers responsible for the event. This negligence has resulted in significant health risks and financial burdens for many families,” she said.
Riverdale Academy Principal Philani Mathe confirmed the incident and stated that they were investigating the matter.
He explained, “Approximately 1 400 people attended the event, and we have received reports of illness from about four students.
“We have been closely monitoring the condition of these students. The school is conducting a thorough investigation and will soon release a statement with definitive information on the causes of these illnesses.'”
Online Reporter