Michael Zulu Primary combines Mandela Day with drug awareness to uplift learners

Tsakani – In commemoration of Mandela Day, Michael Zulu Primary School held an anti-drug awareness campaign for its learners on July 23.

The purpose of the event was to teach learners about the impact and dangers of substance abuse. The campaign received support from the Department of Social Development (DSD) and the African Youth Development Fund (AYDF), in co-ordination with the Ke Moja programme under the DSD.

Deputy principal Mathapelo Mokhine said it was important for the school to observe Mandela Day, especially since schools were closed on the day.

“Many of our learners come from underprivileged backgrounds where parents are substance users. To a child without guidance, this looks right. Our duty is to guide our learners by educating them about the effects of substance use.

“Nelson Mandela’s biggest dream was to build a nation consisting of young people who are progressive, determined to succeed, and most importantly, educated,” said Mokhine.

She further noted that it breaks her heart to see young people begging, smoking, and engaging in crime due to addiction.

“As a school, we want to combat that behaviour. We want our children to grow up as responsible individuals who talk about their problems rather than use substances.”

Mokhine also emphasised the importance of teaching children about uTata.

“We now have access to free and proper education. We have rights, freedom of speech, and equality because of the sacrifices our former president made for us.

“As a school, we deem it important to educate the next generation about uTata and the great work he did for this country,” she added.

School teacher and librarian Fikile Mabuza said the school is aware that it has children with different backgrounds.

“As educators, we joined forces and fundraised to buy food parcels for learners in need. We will give 25 food parcels and 10 bundles of preloved clothes to those we have identified.

“The school also works with different organisations, stakeholders, departments and social workers to create meaningful programmes for our learners,” said Mabuza.

She noted that the school had seen many young girls get pregnant and struggle to raise their children.

“They often turn to drugs, alcohol and other harmful activities. Sometimes, it is because they receive no guidance at home. Integrating such programmes at primary school level serves as an eye-opener to the learners,” she added.

The school hosted activities and performances to highlight the significance of Mandela Day. The AYDF outreach department team leader, Siyanda Makiwane, stressed the importance of teaching primary school learners about substance abuse.

“The Ke Moja programmes are centred on preventing substance use and raising awareness. Primary school campaigns are the grassroots level for steering our future generation in the right direction. If these children are taught about the dangers of substance abuse now, they will make more informed decisions,” he said.

He added that combining the anti-drug campaign with Mandela Day was a great idea because uTata promoted positivity and opportunity for every black child.

“We do not want the things Mandela fought for to fall short,” he said.

Makiwane explained that the Ke Moja programme has different categories tailored to each age group. In primary schools, especially the foundation phase, there is a puppet programme that raises awareness through storytelling.

“The children learn in a fun and exciting way. They relate to the characters, ask questions and understand what they are being taught.

“From age 10 and up, there is the peer education programme, which includes sub-programmes that present the content in an age-appropriate and relatable way,” he said.

The event ended on a joyful note, with learners receiving the donations, singing and sharing their thoughts about the importance of Mandela Day.