As the Class of 2024 concludes their final exams, the Gauteng Liquor Board (GLB) is issuing a stern warning to liquor traders, parents, and learners about the dangers of “pens down” parties. These events, often associated with excessive alcohol consumption and risky behaviour, pose significant threats to the safety and well-being of young people.
The Gauteng Liquor Act 2 of 2003 strictly prohibits the sale and supply of alcohol to minors. However, underage drinking continues to be a pervasive issue, particularly during these celebrations. Following the tragic deaths of 21 youths at Enyobeni Tavern in East London in 2022 and multiple incidents during 2023 “pens down” parties—including fatal car crashes and hospitalisations—the GLB is calling for urgent action to prevent further loss of life.
Fati Manamela, Chief Director of the Gauteng Liquor Board, highlighted the seriousness of the issue. “The fact that we continue to see alcohol-fuelled end-of-exam celebrations, despite repeated warnings and awareness campaigns, underscores the severity of this problem. We must act decisively to stop these dangerous gatherings before more lives are lost.”
The urgency of this issue is underscored by recent incidents. In December 2023, three pupils from Mnyanande Secondary School in Durban tragically lost their lives in a car crash after attending a “pens down” party. Similarly, five learners from Dinwiddie High School in Germiston died in a similar incident. In Kwa-Thema, Springs, unsupervised parties led to alarming incidents of overconsumption and other harmful behaviours.
The GLB is urging parents and caregivers to play a pivotal role in preventing such tragedies.
“Parents and guardians significantly influence their children’s decisions. We urge them to stay vigilant and actively discourage their children from attending these unsafe parties. This is a critical period in their lives—they are future leaders who should be focused on achieving their dreams of higher education and meaningful careers,” said Manamela.
Liquor traders are also reminded of their legal responsibility to refuse the sale of alcohol to minors and report any suspicious activities linked to underage drinking.
“We are not against young people celebrating their achievements, but it must be done legally, responsibly, and under proper supervision. Everyone has a role to play in ensuring their safety and protecting the future of our youth,” Manamela added.
The Gauteng Liquor Board is calling on communities, schools, and law enforcement agencies to work together to put an end to these potentially deadly celebrations. Prevention is essential, and through collective efforts, we can safeguard the lives of our young people during this festive season.
Gauteng Department of Economic Development
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