The North West province continues to grapple with escalating issues of gangsterism in schools, with dangerous weapons and drugs once again found at yet another school.

This year, several schools in the province faced closures as teachers and learners were threatened by gang-affiliated students wielding dangerous weapons. In response, the provincial education department has launched a series of roadshows to ensure school readiness and safety.

On Wednesday (11/9), North West Education MEC, Viola Mostumi, visited Meriti Secondary School in Rustenburg unannounced, where a search and seizure operation was conducted by the police. Various illicit items, including knives, space muffins, marijuana, cigarettes, and even an old police belt were discovered during the operation. 

Dangerous weapons and drugs were once again found at yet another school. Picture supplied

The departmental spokesperson Mphata Molokwane expressed concern over the alarming presence of such dangerous items on school grounds. 

Meriti Secondary School has recently been in the spotlight following a series of violent incidents. Two students were stabbed by former students, leading to their admission to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). These events have underscored the urgent need for continued efforts to combat crime and gang-related activities within schools.

“The search and seizure initiative is part of ongoing efforts to curb crime and prevent gang-related activities from infiltrating school grounds,” said Molokwane. “Grades 10 to 12 have been identified as areas of concern, and in response, the Department has provided psycho-social support and motivational talks to assist the learners.”

A series of violent incidents recently occurred at the Meriti Secondary School. Picture supplied

MEC Motsumi highlighted the importance of parental involvement in safeguarding learners and fostering a conducive learning environment. “Parents must play an active role in their children’s education and well-being,” she said.

“We also need to acknowledge the deep impact that psycho-social support has on our learners’ success, especially as they prepare for their final exams. Together with the community, we can address the root causes of gang-related issues, which in some cases, may be fueled by underlying tribal tensions.”

Molokwane also stated that Motsumi’s visit also aimed to assess the school’s readiness for the upcoming National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, with Meriti Secondary School having an enrollment of 1,730 learners, including 280 Grade 12 learners who will sit for the 2024 final exams.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi