'Pens down' warning

MATRIC PARTIES: AUTHORITIES DISCOURAGE RISKY CELEBRATIONS

- Enkosi Selane

As matriculants approach the end of their final exams tomorrow, authorities are intensifying campaigns to prevent "pens down" celebrations that have increasingly become associated with underage drinking, drug use, and potential tragedy.

The Eastern Cape department of education has issued a strong warning to pupils, stating unequivocally: "We encourage our pupils not to partake in such events as underage drinking is illegal."

"We condemn all pens down gatherings as it results in substandard behaviour by our pupils and often causes tragic accidents.

"Completion of exams is an important milestone therefore, we would like all pupils to be present when the results are announced in January," the department said.

The warning comes after the devastating Enyobeni tavern incident in June 2022, where 21 young lives were lost during a mid-year exam celebration.