LET’S KEEP A CLOSE EYE ON OUR KIDS

NOW that schools have closed and the festive season fever is upon us, sadly a substantial number of secondary school students are now idle and unsupervised.

Unfortunately, some unscrupulous older men take advantage of this lack of supervision to organise vuzu parties where they lure the students, especially young girls, to drink alcohol and indulge in drugs and other illicit activities. These parties are usually all-night affairs which are mostly held in affluent neighbourhoods with little suspicion, and the consequences are far-reaching and devastating, especially for the young girls.

Vuzu parties have been a concern during every school holiday in our country for some years now. It is therefore crucial for parents and the police to keep an eye on these parties and take necessary actions to prevent them from happening.

Teenage years can be challenging for our young students, as they often seek validation and acceptance from their peers. Unfortunately, some older men who have a motive to manipulate young people take advantage of this vulnerability to lure them into these vuzu parties. In most cases, the girls involved are promised something in return, like money or expensive gifts, which makes them even more vulnerable to manipulation and exploitation.

The negative effects of such parties on young people cannot be denied. The use of drugs and alcohol at an early age can lead to addiction, which can negatively impact their future. Additionally, engaging in antisocial behaviours can lead to academic failure, social rejection, and legal trouble. These consequences can have long-lasting effects on their lives, making it essential to take proactive measures to prevent them from getting involved in such parties.

Parents need to play a critical role in ensuring their children’s safety and preventing them from joining these parties. They should first and foremost maintain open communication with their children, create a safe space where they can discuss their experiences and feelings. It is also important for parents to monitor their children’s behaviour and look out for any changes that may indicate that they are involved in such activities.

Parents should also teach their children about the dangers of substance abuse and the importance of making wise choices at a young age. By educating them about the consequences of engaging in alcohol, drug and substance abuse, they can empower their children to make better choices and avoid getting themselves into dangerous situations.

The police also have a crucial role to play in ensuring the safety of young people and preventing them from being exploited by older men.

They can work closely with residents to identify the locations where such parties are likely to take place. In addition, the police can engage in undercover operations to identify the organisers and stop the parties from happening.

The police can also collaborate with community organisations to educate young people on the dangers of substance abuse and the need for an early intervention programme. Such programmes can provide resources and support for young people struggling with addiction. Additionally, the police must be tough with organisers of these parties exploiting young people.

But ultimately, it can only be parents keeping a watchful eye on their children which will ensure that these vuzu parties do not take place for the safety and well-being of our young people.