By: Zimaseka Daka
Eastern Cape Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism together with the Eastern Cape Liquor Board and higher education institutions launched an Anti-Alcohol Abuse Campaign at Regent Hotel yesterday.
The purpose of the campaign is to educate young academics about the dangers of alcohol abuse, the negative effects it has on their minds and the behavioural patterns that occur after drinking alcohol.
MEC for Department of Eastern Cape Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism Oscar Mabuyane delivered a keynote address at the event, explaining that they saw things were falling apart hence launching the campaign under the “sober mind-bright future” theme.
Mabuyane also urged parents to talk to their children about the dangers of drinking alcohol. He added that in order to develop the country we need healthier young people.
Amongst those who attended the launch were Eastern Cape Liquor Board Chairperson and Student Representative Council members who touched on the consequences caused by irresponsible drinking such losing lives and rape incidents that are constantly reported.
“We always hear about students being raped, stabbed or being involved in group fights and these instances happen when they are under the influence of alcohol” said Lindelwa Majova Songca, chairperson of the Eastern Cape Liquor Board.
One of the attendees Sesihle Magadla, a scholar from Unathi High School, said he is happy that the campaign was launched in East London and that he learnt from the campaign is one must not let peer pressure control how they make decisions that will change their lives forever and added that he is going to educate other learners from his school about using alcohol responsibly.