Tebogo Msimanga |
Gauteng Education MEC Mr Panyaza Lesufi says he is concerned with the ongoing trend of learners consuming ‘space cakes’. This is after several learners, from Randfontein High School in the West Rand and Mamellong Secondary School in Tsakane, Ekurhuleni were hospitalized on Thursday, 7 April 2022 and Saturday, 9 April 2022.
Gauteng Education Spokesperson Steve Mabona said eleven Grade 12 learners at Randfontein High School reportedly felt sick during schooling hours on Thursday and were immediately rushed to separate medical facilities for medical attention. “Two of the learners were returned home, while nine learners were hospitalized, one of whom was in a critical condition but is now stable.”
It was established that these learners consumed ‘space cakes’ sold by another Grade 12 learner, who is now facing suspension as a result of breaking the school’s code of conduct and endangering the lives of his fellow learners. (space cakes are baked with cannabis).
Mabona added that on Saturday,9 April 2022, four Grade 12 learners from Mamellong Secondary School in Tsakane were also alleged to have purchased space cakes on their way to tuition classes, which they consumed and were eventually hospitalized.
“We are concerned and dissatisfied at the ongoing consumption of these ‘space cakes’ where learners become learners sick and are often hospitalized. We urge learners to refrain from purchasing or consuming unknown substances that put their health and lives at risk.” Pleaded MEC Lesufi.
