Namibia: Pupils coming to school ‘drunk’

Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Clemance Miyanicwe
Published on 2024-03-08 14:23:39

Khorixas police officers recently paid a visit to Welwitschia Junior Secondary School to address a concerning issue of students showing up to school under the influence of alcohol. Outjo circuit inspector, Thomas Nuuyoma Amutenya, took the opportunity to speak to the learners about the dangers of alcohol and substance abuse.

Amutenya expressed his worry about the students coming from the location in a drunken state, emphasizing that this behavior is unacceptable. He revealed that he had spent a week at the school engaging with the pupils and found that some of them were actually arriving at school intoxicated.

One of the root causes, according to Amutenya, is the lack of proper care and supervision from the parents. He pointed out that the parents are not taking responsibility for their children’s well-being, leading them to roam around from one shebeen (informal drinking establishment) to another in Khorixas.

The station commander of Khorixas, Teofilus Ipinge, also chimed in on the issue and placed the blame on parents who consume alcohol in the presence of their children. He condemned parents who send their children to purchase alcohol, which further contributes to the problematic behavior exhibited by the pupils.

Ipinge expressed his concern about the students being out on the streets late at night, underscoring the need for parents to exercise greater control and supervision over their children. He emphasized the importance of creating a safe and nurturing environment for the youth to thrive in.

This visit from the police officers served as a wake-up call for both the students and their parents regarding the serious consequences of alcohol and substance abuse. It highlighted the need for a collaborative effort between law enforcement, educational institutions, and families to address this issue and prevent further instances of students showing up to school under the influence.

In conclusion, it is imperative for parents to take a more active role in guiding and supervising their children, to prevent them from engaging in harmful behaviors such as alcohol consumption at a young age. By working together, the community can create a safer and more supportive environment for the youth to grow and succeed.

Read the original article on The Namibian