Yizo Yizo is a groundbreaking South African television series that aired on SABC 1 from 27 January 1999 to 1 July 2004. Set at the fictional Supatsela High School in a Johannesburg township, the series received widespread acclaim for its powerful, realistic portrayal of the challenges facing the South African education system.
The film tackled issues such as gang violence, drug abuse and sexual abuse, making it a commercial and critically acclaimed success. It was noted for its realistic portrayal of township life and for bringing important social issues to the forefront, influencing public discourse and policy in post-apartheid South Africa.
File
- – Full name: Yizo Yizo
- – Production date: January 27, 1999 (first air date)
- – Place of manufacture: South Africa
- – Writers: Created by Teboho Mahlatsi, Peter Esterhuysen, Harriet Perlman, Mtutuzeli Matshoba and Angus Gibson
Manufacture
“Yizo Yizo” was launched on 27 January 1999, as a response to an initiative by the South African Department of Education to address the breakdown in the culture of learning and teaching in township schools. Filmed in the town of Daveyton, the series was part of a broader campaign called Culture of Learning, Teaching and Service (COLTS).
The aim of the programme is to showcase positive role models and demonstrate the process of revitalising a typical urban school affected by many social issues. The authentic portrayal of the lives of students and the dynamics of the school provides a vivid picture of the challenges of education in South Africa.
Plot
The Yizo Yizo storyline in the series deeply reflects the personal struggles and social issues faced by teenagers in South African townships. The show’s impact on audiences and the careers it launched for many South African actors are important aspects of its legacy.
“Yizo Yizo” spans three seasons and has a total of 39 episodes. The series focuses on the journey of Supatsela High School through changes in leadership, gang influence, and the community’s efforts to take back the school.
The first season depicts the fall of a tyrannical principal and the rise of a corrupt successor, leading to the gang’s control. Later seasons continue to explore themes of violence, drug abuse, and community resilience.
Laduma Film Factory produced the series for the first season and Bomb Productions produced the subsequent seasons. Teboho Mahlatsi and Angus Gibson directed, and Desiree Markgraaff produced.
Prize
- – Five Avanti Awards, including Best Production and Best Director
- – Ronnie Nyakale won Best Supporting Actor at the Avanti Awards for his role as Papa Action
Argumentative
“Yizo Yizo” has not been without controversy. Its crude and unflinching portrayal of violence, drug use, and sexual abuse in the town’s schools has drawn considerable attention and criticism. Some viewers and critics feel that the show is too graphic and could negatively influence young viewers.
Despite these concerns, the show’s producers and creators have defended the show’s approach, arguing that it was necessary to reflect the harsh realities many South African teenagers face.
The controversy surrounding “Yizo Yizo” also highlighted the broader social issues it depicts, sparking discussions about the need for reform and support within the education system.
