Gqeberha school video shines spotlight on substance abuse among pupils

Loading player...
A shocking video showing grade 8 and 10 pupils allegedly abusing alcohol on the premises at a Gqeberha school during break time has raised concern about the behaviour of young people and their abuse of substances. 

The brazen behaviour of the pupils from St Thomas Senior Secondary School in Gelvandale surfaced on a Facebook video last week.Principal Jacqueline Gorgonzola said the incident was the latest in a laundry list of other cases while deputy principal Leis’l Jordaan said staff often found drugs, including tik and cocaine, on pupils. 

In Behind The Herald Headlines with Daron Mann this week, we ask psychologist Wesley Kew if substance abuse among the youth is becoming more prevalent and whether some young people are more susceptible than others.

And how do we address these issues?

We also speak to Eastern Cape education department spokesperson Malibongwe Mtima.
3 Aug 2022 English South Africa News · Society & Culture

Other recent episodes

Nelson Mandela Bay's polluted rivers under the spotlight

A recent report tabled at a public health committee meeting showed that four rivers in Nelson Mandela Bay had elevated levels of bacterial pollutants. The report was compiled from 359 samples taken between September and December. In this week’s Behind The Herald Headlines with Daron Mann, we chat with DA…
28 Feb 13 min

The Herald Cycle Tour from the saddle

Nearly 3,000 riders participated in The Herald Cycle Tour this year, split over two events — the mountain bike and road races. Recognised as one of the heavyweight cycling events of SA, the tour is rated by many as one of the top classics on the sporting calendar, among other…
20 Feb 8 min

Poaching of talented school pupils in the spotlight

Pressure to be the best and secure top honours in school sport has led to poaching. In Behind The Herald Headlines with Daron Mann this week, he chats to Hannes Nienaber, who is responsible for written content at SuperSport Schools. Under discussion is the latest incident at top public schools in…
13 Feb 13 min

How EP rugby is preparing for new season

The EP rugby team have been hard at work on the training field and will have a camp this weekend in preparation for their opening game. In Behind The Herald Headlines with Daron Mann this week, he chats to new EP Elephants rugby coach Allister Coetzee who says he is happy…
6 Feb 13 min

What’s really going on in the DRC

The conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo which claimed the lives of SA soldiers is likely to escalate. That’s political analyst Ntsikelelo Breakfast speaking in the wake of the death of 13 soldiers killed in fighting with M23 rebels in the DRC. The SA troops are in Congo as…
29 Jan 15 min