21.5% of learners in grades 8 to 11 smoking tobacco
Cigarettes and lighters confiscated from learners during a raid at Bonteheuwel High School.
Image: Supplied
Tobacco use among school learners has been flagged as a major public health concern by the City of Cape Town's Health Directorate.
The directorate recently concluded a series of sessions with thousands of learners aged 7 to 18, aimed at discouraging tobacco use and creating awareness of the dangers of smoking.
This, as the theme for World No Tobacco Day on May 31 was Unmasking the appeal – countering nicotine and tobacco addiction.
The City noted that evidence from South African studies showed that approximately 21.5% of learners in grades 8 to 11 reported using tobacco products, while 12.7% smoked cigarettes.
More recent studies also found that 16.8% of high school learners use e-cigarettes, with many showing signs of nicotine dependence.
"These statistics demonstrate that tobacco use among learners is a real and growing problem. All City clinics offer youth-specific services to encourage young people to invest in their health and wellbeing. They can book appointments through the City Health self-service portal, improving access and convenience," said mayco member for Community Services, Francine Higham.
The City advised learners and parents to visit their nearest public healthcare facility for free advice and information on tobacco use, as well as guidance on how to quit.
To book clinic visits in advance, go to the City’s Healthcare Appointments System.
In April, an unannounced raid by ward councillor Angus McKenzie, alongside SAPS, Metro Police, the Neighbourhood Watch and Law Enforcement at schools in Bonteheuwel led to the confiscation of cigarettes, lighters and vapes.
Spokesperson for the Western Cape Education Department, Bronagh Hammond, said Safe Schools officials are working with the schools and partners to implement plans to safeguard public schools.