Substance abuse: schools are public spaces
The recent Constitutional Court ruling that the private use of dagga is legal for adults has no bearing on schools.
Brian Schreuder, HOD: Western Cape Education Department (WCED), warned learners and parents alike against this misconception.
“Schools are public spaces and in terms of the ‘Regulations for Safety Measures at Public Schools’ the national minister has declared all public schools as drug-free and dangerous weapon-free zones.”
Schreuder said that he has received numerous videos of learners smoking dagga within school premises.
“This is becoming a common sight within our schools and isn’t acceptable.
I request every school to ensure that they follow the relevant disciplinary procedures.”
Schools should clearly state in their codes of conduct what kinds of behaviour they consider unacceptable.
This certainly includes substance abuse in schools - both dealing in and using it. Should a learner transgress, the school has the right and responsibility to discipline or suspend the learner.
The WCED will support schools to ensure that the relevant disciplinary procedures are followed when it comes to violence and substance abuse in schools.
The WCED’s policy on ‘Learner Discipline and School Management’ assists schools on how to conduct the disciplinary process.
The WCED district offices are also equipped to provide advice on how to manage the disciplinary procedures.
“This is yet another example of the lack of respect some learners have for the institutions in which they are being taught,” said Schreuder.
“Respect and discipline begins at home and we are appealing to parents to teach and encourage discipline, respect and tolerance at home, in society and in school.
“Our youth will never progress if they are not taught essential values and behaviours. Learners need to be taught from a young age what the values are that they should demonstrate towards their educators, as well as their peers.”