‘Steer clear of pens down parties’: Gauteng Safety MEC urges

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The Gauteng department of community safety has issued a stern warning to learners to refrain from attending ‘pens down parties’ as exam season nears the end.

According to the department these parties pose a serious safety and security risk.

MEC Faith Mazibuko said attending pens down parties can have serious consequences as a result of impaired judgement.

“Where there is excessive alcohol consumption will lead to impaired judgement and reckless behaviour, as such this increases the likelihood of accidents and injuries.

“These parties also encourage misconduct and the use of illicit substances. Therefore, learners are encouraged to refrain from attending these parties,” she stated.

The MEC urged parents and guardians to ensure that they know the whereabouts and movements of their children at all times.

She further emphasised that law enforcement agencies will be on the ground to respond to criminal acts and ensure that there is compliance to regulations.

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“Any misconduct or criminal behaviour emanating from these gatherings will not be tolerated. Therefore, the police together with other law enforcement agencies will ensure that law and order is maintained so that the safety of the learners and the public is maintained,” Mazibuko concluded.

Meanwhile, the KwaZulu-Natal education MEC Mbali Fraser is expected to visit the Westville correctional facility on Friday to engage with the inmates on the importance of education.

The MEC will meet with those matric candidates who sat for the 2023 national senior certificate examinations and thank them for having ensured that the examinations in all the correctional. services were without irregularities.

“As the department, we have a strong belief that education plays a major role in dissuading people from a life of crime and also plays a big role in preventing recidivism,” MEC Fraser said.