Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni recently visited Realogile Secondary School in Alexandra to donate a large floor chess set, sports gear, and other equipment, including a table tennis set, as part of efforts to create safer, more constructive environments for learners.

Read more: Over 50 arrested in Alexandra during SAPS Operation Shanela II

The handover, supported by the Department of Sports in partnership with Afrika Tikkun, marked the launch of a new chess programme which is designed to sharpen young minds, build discipline, promote critical thinking, and keep learners occupied in positive activities. Mthombeni stressed that such initiatives directly help steer youth away from criminal influences. “We know that the chess project is stimulating young minds. It also keeps them busy and keeps them away from the clutches of crime. We don’t want you to be involved in crime,” he said.

During the event, Mthombeni made an appeal to the local police station and managers of the Adopt-a-Cop programme to provide ongoing support to the school. He specifically called for action on the persistent challenge of break-ins, substance abuse, and vandalism. “I call upon the local police station, more especially the Adopt-a-Cop programme … to ensure that you support the school [and] deal with what has been highlighted here at school, which is the break-ins,” he said. He said that these issues must be confronted head-on, describing crime as the ‘common enemy’ that demands united action from communities, stakeholders, and police.

Councillor Adolph Marema welcomed the chess initiative as a powerful tool for youth development. “It is a powerful initiative that uses chess to promote critical thinking, discipline and youth development,” he said.

Also read: Alexandra crime spike prompts SAPS response

He lauded stakeholders, including Guardian Angel Wildlife and Marine Trust, Community Policing Forum, and the Gauteng Department of Community Safety, among others, noting their commitment and continued investment in safer, healthier and empowered communities. “We are making the right moves for education, safety and opportunity in our schools and communities.”

School Governing Body chairperson Aubrey Mudau expressed gratitude for the donations and support. He said the school is prepared to receive any form of donation that can be used for the academic development of a child. “As a school, we are on a perpetual pursuit of excellence, and partnerships made today will go a long way in achieving our objectives,” he added.

“May today’s event be the catalyst for many good things to come. We are very much thankful for your presence and the initiative that you have taken for our school,” he said.

Follow us on our WhatsApp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates!