Random drug-testing: the duty to act against learners who use drugs

27 May 2009

This article explores educators’ duty in terms of running their own schools. It weighs the importance of a drug-using learner’s right to privacy against that of the school community’s security on the issue of random drug-testing. A comparison is drawn between the American and the South African situation. The point of departure is a pro-active stance on the sportsfield, leading to assistance in resistance training, the identification of the need for professional help, and the creation of a drug-free school environment. The ultimate issue is the random drug-testing of all learners.