Concern grows over rise in ‘Pens Down’ parties as matrics urged to stay safe

Celebrate, but do it safely – and be aware that the decisions you make today could impact the future you hope to have tomorrow.

That's the warning to matriculants from the Department of Basic Education (DBE) in the wake of the growing culture of post-matric parties.

End of year, post-exam celebrations are nothing new... for some it was Plett Rage, for others a house party at a classmate's home, but today they’ve taken on a new name – Pens Down events.

The idea hasn’t changed, but the way they play out has, and not always in a good way.

The DBE warns that Pens Down events have created more spaces where teens are vulnerable and exposed to harm.

Reports over recent years have linked some of these gatherings to heavy drinking, unsafe sexual behaviour, and situations where adults exploit minors.

Stephen Harrison from the Western Cape LiquorAuthority says while the WCLA understands this is a time for celebration, it's also important to keep celebrations safe.

"Unfortunatley, it's a period of heightened risk for young people at this time of year."

Harrison says it's a busy time of year for WCLA inspectors.

"Our inspectors are out in force, going around to licensed establishments to check that they are complying with the underage drinking laws."

Unlicensed vendors are also under the spotlight, warns Harrison.

"We are working with other law enforcement like SAPS, checking up on unlicensed outlets and ensuring that they are not operating as far as possible... but we can't be everywhere."

Harrison adds that there is a big responsibility on parents and students themselves to behave responsibly.

To listen to Stephen Harrison in conversation with CapeTalk's Lester Kiewit, click the audio below: