LIMPOPO – Tshikota Secondary School is facing growing concern over learners attending school under the influence of drugs such as nyaope, dagga, alcohol and viper, while incidents of gangsterism and bullying have also raised alarm.

Videos circulating on social media allegedly show learners smoking and using drugs, prompting concern among parents, teachers and the community, who say the footage has damaged the school’s reputation. The learners in the videos reportedly displayed unusual behaviour, including heightened alertness and excessive energy.

Community members claim gangs are contributing to violence in schools, while bullying and substance abuse continue to increase in the area.

Pattern of violence in the circuit

The concerns follow other incidents of school violence in the Soutpansberg West Circuit. Earlier this year, a Gr 10 learner at Sobani High School in the Sinthumule area stabbed a Gr 8 learner with a sharp object.

The younger learner sustained serious injuries and was taken to a nearby clinic for treatment. The perpetrator was later suspended by the School Governing Body (SGB) for 21 days.

Parent points to lack of security

One parent, who requested anonymity, blamed the lack of security at Tshikota Secondary and the easy availability of drugs.

The parent alleged that drug dealers sell dagga to learners during school breaks and criticised the police for allegedly not conducting regular visits to the school.

“The behaviour of some learners has a negative influence on others,” the parent said.

“The school should establish support groups and invite social workers and the police to educate learners about the dangers of crime, drugs and violence.”

Teacher describes discipline struggles

A teacher, who also asked to remain anonymous, said maintaining discipline had become increasingly difficult.

“When we ask some learners why they are late, they simply walk away and sit outside the school premises. We try our best to instil discipline, but some continue to go astray every day,” the source said.

SGB responds to circulating footage

School Governing Body chairperson Gladsy Sibudugu confirmed the SGB had seen the videos.

“We will convene a meeting to discuss the matter. The learners appearing in the videos will be summoned and the appropriate disciplinary processes will be followed,” she said.

Sibudugu also confirmed that the school currently has no security officers.