Youth take charge
The march was aimed at raising awareness and helping to break the cycle of abuse and violence against women and children.
Learners from Dalpark Private School took inspiration from and honoured their 1976 counterparts by staging a protest against the rise of violence against women and children.
Grade Five, Six and Seven learners marched along the streets of Dalpark Extension Six on Thursday morning, last week, as part of the school’s Youth Day programme.
The march was aimed at raising awareness and helping to break the cycle of abuse and violence against women and children.
“Recently there has been an alarming increase in the number of reported cases of violence against women and children, including abduction, rapes and murders,” said school principal Logan Naina.
“As a school, we felt that we needed to educate out learners on how to stay safe.
“We also needed to show them that we need to take a stand and speak out against all forms of violence, particularly against women and children.”
The march was also attended by parents who wanted to show their support.
The throng marched from the school, along Umkomaas Road, to Etosha Street, where they then headed towards Airport Drive.
Along the way they proudly waved posters and banners condemning abuse, and shouted anti-violence slogans.
Watch:
From Airport Drive, the marchers proceeded to the Rangeview Road intersection, near Mall@Carnival, and then turned left to head back to the school.
Members of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department safely escorted the procession through the streets.
Following the march, Capt Lusha Govender from the Brakpan SAPS, addressed the school and spoke to learners about safety.
Residents are encouraged to report incidents of abuse to police.
Tips for keeping your children safe:
• Many incidents occur while children are outside playing and parents are inside, so always be aware of your children’s whereabouts and ensure they have adequate parental supervision at all times.
• Keep a close eye on your child’s cellphone and internet usage and who they’re communicating with.
• Do a background check on any child minders that you employ and ensure that any day-care facilities you send your children to are registered.
• If you can’t fetch your children from school, make sure the teachers are aware of who will be collecting them.
• If abuse is happening within the family unit, don’t ignore it or try to manage it internally; reach out for professional help from the SAPS or the various child protection institutions.
• Children are also advised to be honest and open with their parents so that they can help them or pick up any form of abuse easily.
• Parents must know and understand their children, and talk openly to them about abuse and their protection.
More photos: Dalpark Private School Youth Day march
Also read: New school building for Dalpark Private School
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