Gauteng Finance and Economic Development MEC Lebogang Maile, has called on learners in Gauteng to celebrate in a responsible manner during their “Pens-Down Parties” at the end of this year’s final exams; MEC strongly urged pupils to avoid substance abuse, especially alcohol and drugs during pens down parties.
The Gauteng Liquor Act of 2003 prohibits the selling or supplying of liquor to anyone under the age 18. All schools are declared alcohol-free zones, which means no teacher, parent, or learner should possess alcohol on school premises or during school-related functions. The MEC emphasised that anyone found to be supplying alcohol to persons under the age of 18 shall be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
‘We, therefore, call on parents and communities to work with government in ensuring that learners celebrate responsibly, safely and supervised by parents
’Licensed liquor outlets that are found to be hosting or allowing the consumption of alcohol by persons under the age of 18 shall have their licensed suspended and revoked by the Gauteng Liquor Board.
Various cases of irresponsible alcohol consumption including the 2022 tragedy at the Enyobeni Tavern are a painful reminder of the consequences of noncompliance to the liquor regulations.
The MEC highlights that from the first week of November, the Gauteng Liquor Board will be conducting an ‘Anti-Pens Down Campaign’ across all corners of society including on various social media platforms, liquor outlets and learning institutions. These campaigns will be conducted working with law enforcement, School Governing Bodies (SGBs), Community Policing Forums (CPFs) and various stakeholders in communities.
‘Our liquor inspectors, together with the South African Police Service (SAPS) designated liquor officers, will be conducting various compliance blitzes across the province. This will involve checking venues, cracking down on illegal sales, and making sure the law is observed accordingly’, said the MEC, strongly encouraging law enforcement to intervene to protect pupils and the vulnerable.
Members of the community are encouraged to report the sale of alcohol to minors or underage drinking at events or outlets.
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MEC Maile wishes all learners well as they continue with their final exams, he added that Government wants pupils to celebrate their academic milestones safely and responsibly.
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1Issued by the Gauteng Department of Finance and Economic Development.
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