By: Nqobile Maphalala

The community of Molweni has cleaned up its bushes following reports that students bunk classes and smoke in the bush.

The bush was situated next to KwaDinakubo High School where it is alleged that learners from this school skip classes to hide in the bush and smoke.

Ward Councilor Sthembiso Mchunu organized the cleaning campaign, which aimed at keeping learners inside their classrooms.

“Learners hide in this bush and do not attend classes. They smoke weed, gamble and even engage in sexual activities. That is why we responded quickly so that our children can sustain their future,” said Mchunu.

Nomusa Memela, a parent, said that she is very concerned about the activities that take place in the bush.

“I have always recommended and liked this school because of its high matric pass rate.

I have a daughter in grade seven and would like to send her to this school. But I’m very concerned about her safety because of the things I have seen happening in that bush,” Memela said.

However like most parents, Memela is very thankful and relieved that the bush has been removed.

Kwanele Gumede, one of the learners, said that he was happy that the campaign was a success.

“This will ensure that we have a full class attendance as learners would no longer have a place to hide,” added Gumede.

The principal of the school, Duma Ngidi, said that he is thankful for the complaints he received from the community and teachers.

“Some of the complaints I would receive from the community included me failing as a principal to control and govern the school as children would take ‘french leave’ known as bunking classes, smoke weed, and gamble and, there has been evidence that they even engage in sexual activities,” explained Ngidi.