Eleven RHS learners hospitalised after eating dagga cakes

Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi has urged learners from a school in Randfontein and one in Ekurhuleni to refrain from consuming space (dagga) cakes after several learners were hospitalised last week.

According to an official statement issued by the Gauteng Department of Education, 15 Grade 12 learners, all from Randfontein High School (RHS) in Greenhills and Mamellong Comprehensive School in Tsakane, Ekurhuleni were hospitalised between Thursday, April 7 and Saturday, April 9.

“Approximately 11 Grade 12 learners at RHS reportedly felt sick during schooling hours on Thursday and were rushed to separate medical facilities for medical attention. Two of the learners were returned home, while nine learners were hospitalised, one of whom was in a critical condition but is now stable,” the MEC said in the statement.

In the same media statement, the MEC said it was established that these learners consumed the 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.

“On Saturday, 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 hospitalised. We are really concerned and dissatisfied at the ongoing consumption of these space cakes causing learners to become sick and often being hospitalised.

We urge learners to refrain from purchasing or consuming unknown substances that put their health and lives at risk. The condition of these learners is being closely monitored to ensure their speedy recovery and safe return to their families,” said MEC Lesufi.