DURBAN North Police has urged matriculants visiting uMhlanga and Durban North to celebrate responsibly and not to break the law as the end of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams draws near.

An influx of youngsters is expected along the KZN coastline in the next few days with many teenagers celebrating the end of their schooling career.

Synonymous with the celebrations have been ‘Pens Down’ parties associated with public drinking and other vandalism.

Spokesperson for the station Nonhlanhla Shozi said police are preparing for the weeks ahead and will not hesitate to arrest anyone caught breaking the law.

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“We have our plans in place to deal with any vandalism, public drinking, drunken driving and any inappropriate behaviour. We encourage learners to celebrate responsibly and not break the law. Our officers will be out on patrol monitoring the situation, and there is zero tolerance for anyone breaking the law,” she said.

On Sunday, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education (KZN DoE) issued a statement also discouraging what it called the ‘alarming and disruptive’ Pens Down activities.

“The department acknowledges that for many, the completion of examinations marks a significant milestone. However, we urge learners to celebrate this achievement responsibly, in a manner that reflects dignity and respect for themselves, their peers and their communities,” said MEC for Education Sipho Hlomuka.

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“We encourage parents, guardians and communities to work together with schools to prevent risky Pens Down events. Learners should remember that their actions not only impact upon themselves but also reflect on their schools and families.”

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