Drugs galore at school

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The drug problem in Noordgesig has even infected schools.

Drugs are causing havoc in Noordgesig where the problem has even infected schools. At Noordgesig Senior Secondary School, only four out of 30 pupils who were randomly selected for drug testing last month tested negative.

The rest tested positive for substances like tik, heroin, crack cocaine and nyaope. Teachers blame the many drug peddlers operating in the township and the lack of decisive action by the police.

The whole community is drug infested, said a senior teacher, speaking on condition of anonymity.

He said that when police last conducted a raid at the school in November, two pupils were found with drugs.

In the past two years we have witnessed a disturbing increase in drug abuse cases at the school. It was never like this before and we appeal to members of the community to join in the fight against drug abuse. What kind of community is this when children are allowed to dabble in drugs?

Another teacher said it was imperative for residents to get involved. He said he was shocked when a group of parents protested at the school gates last year when police raided the school. They scolded us and called us names for allowing the police to search learners. I was very disappointed because the fight against drugs should be a collective effort. We really need to work together as educators and parents.

The chairman of the school governing body, Emmanuel Matlala, said that despite concerted efforts by educators to warn pupils about the dangers of drugs, the environment around the school where drug abuse was rife posed a serious challenge for law-abiding citizens.

Matlala said that when pupils were found to be using drugs, there was a disciplinary process and their parents were called to take them for rehabilitation.

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Drugs galore at school