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Yizo Yizo is a groundbreaking South African television drama series that aired on SABC 1 from January 27, 1999, to July 1, 2004. Set in the fictional Supatsela High School in a Johannesburg township, the show gained widespread acclaim for its gritty, realistic portrayal of the challenges facing the South African education system.

It tackled issues such as gang violence, drug abuse, and sexual abuse, making it a critical and commercial success. The series was noted for its raw depiction of township life and for bringing critical social issues to the forefront, influencing public discourse and policy in post-apartheid South Africa.

Profile

• – Full name: Yizo Yizo
• – Date of production: January 27, 1999 (date of first airing)
• – Place of production: South Africa
• – Writers: Created by Teboho Mahlatsi, Peter Esterhuysen, Harriet Perlman, Mtutuzeli Matshoba, and Angus Gibson

Production

“Yizo Yizo” debuted on January 27, 1999, as a response to the South African Department of Education’s initiative to address the breakdown in the culture of learning and teaching in township schools. Filmed in the township of Daveyton, the series was part of a broader campaign called the Culture of Learning, Teaching, and Service (COLTS).

It aimed to present positive role models and demonstrate the process of restoring a typical urban school affected by various social issues. The show’s realistic portrayal of student life and school dynamics offered a vivid picture of the educational challenges in South Africa.

Storyline

Yizo Yizo storylines within the series deeply reflect the personal struggles and societal issues faced by the youth in South African townships. The show’s impact on its audience and the careers it launched for many South African actors are significant aspects of its legacy.

“Yizo Yizo” ran for three seasons and had 39 episodes in total. The series focused on Supatsela High School’s journey through leadership changes, gang influence, and community efforts to reclaim the school.

The first season depicted a dictatorial principal’s downfall and a corrupt successor’s rise, leading to gang control. Subsequent seasons continued to explore themes of violence, drug abuse, and community resilience.

Laduma Film Factory produced the series for the first season and Bomb Productions for the subsequent seasons. Teboho Mahlatsi and Angus Gibson directed it, and Desiree Markgraaff produced it.

Awards

• – Five Avanti Awards, including Best Production and Best Director
• – Ronnie Nyakale won the Best Supporting Actor Avanti Award for his role as Papa Action

Controversy

“Yizo Yizo” was not without its controversies. The series’ raw and unflinching portrayal of violence, drug use, and sexual abuse in township schools drew significant attention and criticism. Some viewers and critics felt that the show was too graphic and could negatively influence young viewers.

Despite these concerns, the producers and creators defended the show’s approach, arguing that it was necessary to reflect the harsh realities many South African youths face.

The controversy surrounding “Yizo Yizo” also highlighted the broader societal issues it depicted, sparking discussions about the need for reform and support within the education system.

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