Motshekga worried about 'pens down' parties as exams near end
With just three days left before the conclusion of the 2023 matric exam period, Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga has expressed concern about the abuse of alcohol by matrics when the final year exams come to an end.
Grade 12’s will write their final National Senior Certificate exam on Wednesday.
In June 2022, 21 people died while attending a ‘pens down’ party at Enyobeni Tavern in East London.
Briefing the media on Sunday, Motshekga urged parents to keep a close eye on their children.
“We have noted with concerns, learners hosting and attending what they call ‘pens down’ parties all over the show. What is clear is that as much as it is a time for celebrating, hundreds of our children are overindulging in alcohol, binge drinking and even finding themselves in trouble with the law.
“We really want to urge parents, communities and caregivers to support our kids to stay safe and grow."
Motshekga said the vandalism of schools during the holiday period is also a concern for the department.
"So, we want to again appeal to school communities to take care of their schools especially during the December holidays when we experience high levels of vandalism, break-ins and thefts and we require more cooperation in that sector."
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