Matric learners urged to refrain from unsupervised parties
KwaZulu-Natal police and education officials have issued a stern warning to matric learners who are set to celebrate the end of their school careers at music festivals and parties.
One of those events, the week-long Rage Festival in Ballito north of Durban is expected to host thousands of matriculants this year.
READ: Security beefed up ahead of Rage Festival says organiser
Newswatch spoke to some learners who wrote their final paper on Thursday.
Thandiwe Hlatshwayo from Mthombo Secondary School says her celebrations are stating off with her matric farewell.
"It's my matric dance, since Monday I have been up and down looking for my dress and shoes," she said.
Ongeziwe Thutshana from Haythorne Secondary School says he will be with his peers.
"I am not going to try to party too hard because there is a lot of things that could happen during the festive season - it gets wild," he said.
KZN police spokesperson, Captain Nqobile Gwala says police will be deployed in hotspot areas and beaches during the school holidays.
"Following the recent incidents of pupils being involved in 'Pens Down' or Explosion school closing party holidays, KwaZulu-Natal police sends a stern warning to those who will be attending these parties behave themselves and not get into trouble with the law."
"Parents and communities have a responsibility to educate our children with regards to the dangers of indulging in drugs. We also encourage communities to continue informing us of the presence of drug dealers."
"Police will be deployed in recreation areas to ensure that no alcohol is used in those areas. We are also appealing to parents not to allow their children to travel alone when embarking on trips during the festive season," she said.
Education officials have also urged learners to refrain from participating in unsupervised celebrations.
"We have over the years observed a trend where pupils organize parties themed “Pens Down” in order to celebrate their last day in high school. These parties are usually dominated by drug and alcohol abuse and this phenomenon is not good for the livelihood of young people whose future still needs to be built and nurtured."
"The MEC for Education in KwaZulu-Natal Mr Kwazi Mshengu wishes to warn against any premature celebrations in the form of 'Pens Down' parties, and calls on parents to monitor their own children to ensure their ultimate safety," the department said in a statement.
