Don’t be too hasty to ban outdoor education

It is entirely correct that the authorities in the Gauteng education department thoroughly investigate the tragic drowning of Enoch Mpianzi, and one’s thoughts and sympathies go to his family.  

Outdoor educational activities can add considerable value to a teenager and there are numerous examples of these across the country. While I would commend those who insist on finding out the facts of this disaster, I would plead with the departmental authorities, parents and teachers not to leap to the conclusion that excursions such as this should be banned. All too often we tend to hit the panic button and sweep them away because there has been a tragedy...