​As the Class of 2024 gears up to celebrate the end of their academic year, the Gauteng Department of Social Development (GDSD) Northern Corridor took a proactive stance by hosting an Anti-Pens-Down Awareness Campaign. The initiative, held on Thursday, 28 November 2024, at Mashigo Total Garage in Stinkwater, Hammanskraal, aimed to caution young people and their families about the risks associated with end-of-year celebrations.
 
The event, attended by multiple local stakeholders, focused on curbing substance abuse, underage drinking, and unsafe behaviour often linked to "pens-down" parties.
 
Speaking to the community, Nelly Seale, Departmental Social Work Manager for Substance Abuse, emphasized the campaign's importance as schools close and students begin their holidays.
 
"Learners have completed or are finalizing their examinations, and as the festive season approaches, our goal is to create awareness about the dangers of substance abuse," said Seale. "Let's avoid one moment of pleasure that could lead to a lifetime of regret."
 
The event spotlighted services provided by organizations like SANCA Pretoria/Hammanskraal and Soshanguve, which work closely with youth battling substance abuse.
 
Thabiso Mashabane from SANCA outlined their comprehensive rehabilitation services, which include detoxification, counselling, group sessions, and monitoring.
 
"Many children fall into underage drinking or experimenting with drugs during celebrations, making them vulnerable to risks like sexual assault," Mashabane explained. "We offer free outpatient programs to help disadvantaged community members recover and reintegrate into society."
 
Mashabane highlighted the importance of aftercare programs, which support patients in maintaining sobriety and finding stability through skills development opportunities.
 
The campaign delivered a strong message: while celebrating milestones is natural, it should never come at the cost of health, safety, or the future. By equipping youth and their families with resources and knowledge, GDSD hopes to foster responsible decision-making during this festive season.