Question NW58 to the Minister of Basic Education
25 February 2015 - NW58
Waters, Mr M to ask the Minister of Basic Education
(1) How many learners attending schools in the Edenvale area were caught (a) in possession of drugs and (b) dealing in drugs in the (i) 2012 and (ii) 2013 academic years; (2) at which schools did the above learners attend; (3) what were the consequences for the learner in each case? (2) at which schools did the above learners attend; (3) what were the consequences for the learner in each case?
Reply:
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has entered into a Collaborative Partnership Protocol with the South African Police Service (SAPS) in 2011. The Protocol is an acknowledgement that safety is a shared responsibility between both the Departments. Officials from both Departments have committed themselves to promote the safety of everyone at school and to combat school violence as captured in the delivery agreement of both Ministries. Action Plan 2019 (Goal 10) is also enhanced through this partnership as it ensures that children remain effectively in schools until they turn 15 years old. One of the commitments of the Partnership Protocol is to prevent and manage alcohol and drug use amongst learners in schools.
1. According to information received from SAPS two learners were arrested (a) for the possession of illegal drugs (b) and none for dealing in illegal substances (i) during 2012 and (ii) 2013 academic years.
2. The two learners were from Edenglen High School and Don Materra Child and Youth Care Centre.
3. Both learners were arrested for possession of illegal drugs and both cases were withdrawn at Court. The learner from Edenglen High School was suspended and the learner from Don Materra Child and Youth Care Centre was transferred to another institution.