66% concerns, on underage drinking in the Western Cape.

Currently statistics raise concerns on underage drinking in the Western Cape. Report shows that 66% leaners across the province. according to IOL, the provincial survey on substance use, finds that about 22.3% of pupils has been reported and there are now calls for more contemporary survey which might show even upper ratios. SAMRC claims alcohol use has dominated to absenteeism, failing grades, dropping out of school, risky sexual behavior and pregnancy. Prof. Charles Parry added that ‘binge drinking’ is also harmful as it can damage brain development especially those of early 20s and under.

2017 Western Cape Alcohol Harm Reduction White paper appropriate by parliament would be good to reduce drinking in schools. Accordingly, aware.org has developed a multi-pronged programme to address underage drinking. One element of the programme is the distribution of specially developed material aligned to CAPS to schools for use in Life Orientation classes, allied with support for the teachers via workshops and online support. Aware.org have also developed a zero-rated content portal  to further assist the programmes and community at large.

The Southern Africa Alcohol Policy Alliance spokesperson Aadielah Maker Diedericks suggested that government should implement the National Liquor Amendment Bill of 2017. creates provision for a range of no alcohol trading of 500m nearby schools.

Edited by:

Mandlenkosi Mde