KNYSNA NEWS - A group of Grade 7 learners at Fraaisig Primary School reportedly inhaled Drink-O-Pop, a powdered soft drink mix, leading to uncontrollable coughing and eye irritation.
While the product is not classified as an illegal substance, its misuse has raised serious health and safety concerns within the school community.
In response, the school convened a meeting on Monday 1 September, involving the parents of all learners as well as the school governing body to discuss the incident and agree on a constructive way forward.
The school has emphasised that no learners were expelled, contrary to false claims that had circulated on social media.
On 28 August, a post by Calvin Samuels appeared on the "Knysna en Dinge" Facebook page, alleging that the school had expelled learners for "smoking" the powdered drink and blaming the school for the learners' actions.
These accusations were strongly refuted by the school and the Western Cape Education Department (WCED), which confirmed that none of the learners involved were expelled and that the matter was being handled appropriately and responsibly.
In an effort to address the misinformation, the school invited Samuels to visit and engage in person regarding his claims. However, to date, he has not visited the school.
After a meeting with the parents of the learners involved and a resolution being reached, the Facebook post has been removed.
According to Millicent Merton of the WCED Directorate of Communication, the school has taken pro-active steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As part of this effort, the school has arranged for a non-governmental organisation to conduct a substance abuse awareness programme.
The initiative aims to educate learners about the dangers of misusing legal substances, including everyday household or food products not intended for inhalation or recreational use.
The incident also brings attention to "Lean" or "Purple Drink", a dangerous mix of prescription cough syrup, soda and candy that has become popular among teens.
Known for its sedative effects and links to impaired motor function, it highlights the urgent need for substance abuse education among youth.
The WCED continues to support the school in its efforts to promote learner safety and well-being.
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