As South African learners draw closer to the completion of their final exams, authorities are issuing urgent pleas for them to avoid ‘pens down’ parties.
The practice has drawn significant concern following the tragic incident at Enyobeni Tavern in East London, Eastern Cape, which resulted in the loss of 21 lives in 2022.
The Buffalo City Municipality has stepped forward with a strong warning for pupils, urging them to refrain from participation in these parties, while also calling on parents to remain vigilant during this period.
“As the end of exams approaches, the Buffalo City Metro is warning pupils to refrain from taking part in pens down parties. We also call on parents and guardians to be vigilant and to be actively involved during this period and prevent their children from taking part in these,” the municipality stated on social media.
This sentiment echoes the warnings from Cathy Dlamini, the MEC for Education in Mpumalanga, who expressed concern over the increasing frequency of secretive pens down gatherings among learners.
Dlamini described such events as imbuing reckless behaviour, stating that “past experiences have proven that these parties may lead to disastrous consequences due to lack of adult or parental supervision”.
Dlamini further remarked: “Some of our children have become victims of rape, and some have even lost their lives as a result of these unwholesome gatherings.”
With a note of urgency, she called on parents and community members to strongly condemn these parties and monitor their children’s movements, highlighting the risks associated with alcohol and substance abuse during such events.
In alignment with these concerns, the Department of Basic Education has also issued a clarion call via their platform, stating: “We discourage any ‘pens down’ parties that may occur after the matric examinations.”
Moreover, in KwaZulu-Natal, the MEC for Education, Sipho Hlomuka, has echoed these sentiments, strongly discouraging the disruptive activities associated with ‘pens down’.
He pointed out that while the completion of exams is commendable, it is imperative that learners prioritise safety and respect for their community.
“Let us prioritise safety, respect for property and the wellbeing of our communities during this time,” Hlomuka emphasised.
Hlomuka encouraged parents, guardians, and communities to collaborate with schools to steer clear of risky celebrations. He reminded learners that their actions not only reflect upon themselves but also impact their schools and families.
“As the Matric Final Examinations approach their conclusion, the Department calls on all stakeholders to promote positive, meaningful celebrations that will inspire pride and uphold the values of discipline, integrity, and respect,” he concluded.
The Star
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za