By Lebone Rodah Mosima
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant after videos circulated showing pupils inhaling chemical fumes through improvised devices.
The department said it condemned the behaviour and warned that inhaling chemical substances in this way posed serious and potentially fatal health risks, including brain damage, respiratory failure and sudden death.
“Schools are meant to be safe environments dedicated to learning and the development of our children,” the DBE said.
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“Any activity that endangers the lives and wellbeing of learners undermines this responsibility and will not be tolerated.”
The department called on parents to speak to their children about the dangers of substance abuse and harmful social media trends. It also urged them to watch for behavioural changes, unusual objects brought home or other signs that pupils may be involved in risky activities.
The DBE said schools should immediately strengthen and strictly enforce safety protocols.
This included random inspections, monitoring items brought onto school premises, strengthening life orientation education on substance abuse, peer pressure and risky behaviour, and ensuring prompt intervention by educators.
It also called for closer collaboration between schools, school governing bodies, parents and local authorities to prevent such activities.
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“Provincial education departments are also encouraged to intensify awareness campaigns on the dangers of substance abuse and other harmful trends affecting learners,” the department said.
“The safety and well-being of students remain a top priority.”
