The Class of 2024 is about to celebrate the end of exams and sleepless nights of studying. The pen-down party starts from November 29 to December 1. Students nationwide will partake in pen-down parties to mark the end of the 2024 school calendar.

Every year, students lose their lives at these pen-down parties. In 2022, 21 teenagers tragically died at Nyobeni Tavern while celebrating the end of their high school exams.

In 2022, a tragic incident occurred in the Western Cape when a 14-year-old boy lost his life after being allegedly stabbed by his own knife during a pen-down party. In 2023, three matric pupils from Mnyamande Secondary School were killed in an accident while returning from a similar celebration. These are just a few of the tragic incidents that have marred pen-down celebrations in recent years.

A former 2023 matriculant, who wished to remain anonymous, said, “At the pen-down venue, drug dealers sell drugs to students, and students themselves deal drugs to other students.”

The young man further adds that one of the main reasons there’s violence at these parties is over a girl; for example, a girl comes with her boyfriend to a pens-down party; during the party she will go home with a different guy that has been one of the causes of fights at these parties. Additionally, the high level of sexual activity at these events can contribute to tensions and conflicts.

The former matriculant alleges that there are cases of human trafficking, particularly targeting girls who lack transportation to return home.

Hendrick Makaneta, an education activist, says, “The pen-down culture in South Africa is growing, and it’s a cause for concern due to the excessive alcohol consumption among students. We urge communities to be vigilant and take steps to ensure accountability and security at these events.”

Mr. Makaneta adds, “The allegations of human trafficking are deeply troubling. This is why we believe that these parties should be closely monitored, especially by law enforcement agencies, to prioritize the safety of our young people.”

Hendrick suggests that schools and communities should organize alternative celebrations to mark students’ achievements.