As the COVID-19 infection rate continues to increase n various parts of the country, the City of Cape Town (COCT) has warned Grade 12 learners that finished their final examinations this week to celebrate responsibly.
According to the COCT, previous years have shown that matriculants prefer to gather in public open spaces or in the CBD to celebrate the end of their final examinations.
The COCT’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith said the end of a school career is cause for celebration, particularly the final exams, however, celebrations can go south very quickly.
“I urge young people to party responsibly, the last thing anyone wants is for such a joyous occasion to be marred by incidents of violence, injury or death related to alcohol abuse, or ending up with a criminal record.
“Our staff will keep a close eye on proceedings and while no one wants to be a party pooper, they’ll de duty-bound to act against any transgressions witnessed,” Smith said.
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Smith added that matriculants who plan to celebrate should take all the necessary steps to ensure a safe environment as we are approaching the COVID-19 fourth wave.
“Matriculants should also be mindful of the possibility that opportunistic criminals will exploit these celebrations for their own selfish ends, and so they must be aware of their surroundings at all times, and not let their guard down,” Smith explained.
Anyone found with alcohol will be fined R500 and have their alcohol confiscated. The COCT also urges that designated drivers be assigned to eliminate the risk of drinking and driving.
Meanwhile, the Disaster Management regulations will be enforced too, as in recent weeks, the City’s Law Enforcement Department has seen an increase in the number of persons fined for not wearing masks or disregarding the midnight curfew.
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