Eastern Cape Premier Ms Noxolo Kiviet has today turned her attention on drug use during her visit to Chapman High School in the Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth. Premier Kiviet was at the school to handover a 620 metres security fencing project which she promised to erect for the school.
The school is in a crime ridden area where drug usage is rife. "This security fencing will protect you against criminal elements who might want to sell you drugs,” Kiviet told learners. The security fencing cost R179 000 and Premier Kiviet through her discretionary fund also provided an air conditioner for the school’s computer lab.
The school has a social responsibility programme that deals with drug usage. Premier Kiviet told learners that drugs destroy families and society, urging learners to stay away from them.
“I have seen a number of brilliant people who could have been successful in life going to the ruins because of drugs. Some of them cannot do anything for themselves as they are brain damaged. If people want to sell you drugs, tell them to go away and inform the police,” said Premier Kiviet.
Premier Kiviet commended the learners for discipline, respect and dedication to their studies. “Although you come from poor households, your school is doing exceptional and producing good results. It’s important for other schools to observe and learn from what you do to perform well despite the challenging environment,” said Premier Kiviet.
Chapman High School obtained a pass rate of 93 % in last year’s grade 12 exams and has an enrollment of over 1 000 learners. “We don’t want to come here and find this fence down. We don’t want to come here and find the air conditioner not working. Preserve what you have, so that we can intervene in other schools.
Premier Kiviet will turn her attention to the elderly tomorrow where she will hand over 300 blankets to “warm them up” ahead of the winter chill.
Enquiries:
Mzukisi Ndara
Government Spokesperson
Cell: 083 324 4269
