Youth address GBV issues
The Junior Commissioner programme provides the youth an opportunity to play a meaningful role in ensuring safe learning environment in schools.
Grade 11 Dalpark Secondary School learner Nhlanhla Reitumetse Mokone, the junior station commander at Brakpan Police Station, was accompanied by Brakpan SAPS sector managers last Wednesday to the Junior Commissioner National Intergenerational GBV Dialogue.
Mokone, who is in her third year as junior station commander, is also the junior branch commissioner of Ekurhuleni and deputy provincial commissioner of Gauteng.
The Junior Commissioner programme is a SAPS initiative that aims to engage young people in crime prevention and leadership development.
The SAPS partners with the education department, and competitions are held to select the junior commissioner. Learners are assessed on their knowledge of the topic and presentation skills. Learners are given guidance and support by the SAPS.
The main goal of the programme is to create a safe and secure learning environment, to address crime in schools, and to help with mentoring young people in communities.
The dialogue event was hosted by Hoërskool Jeugland in Kempton Park and organised by the Agape Youth Movement under the leadership of Matsetsebale Tleane. Stakeholders present included the SAPS, Department of Basic Education, GIZ, and the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities.
Issues related to GBV in and outside learning institutions were discussed by a panel comprising an educator, learner, SAPS officer and social worker.
Learners in the audience asked questions, provided input, and suggested solutions to some GBV challenges. The Agape Youth Movement also runs a learner-led programme “Asiyifuni,” meaning “We don’t want it,” which is also used as a slogan.
“The intellectually enthusiastic minds seemed to truly enjoy the knowledge challenge with peers,” said Brakpan SAPS Sector 1 manager Constable Audrey Buthelezi.
“Stakeholders encouraged the learners to strive for education. The SAPS assured safety and security at schools is a priority and encouraged the schools to fully utilise the Adopt-A-Cop campaign at their respective institutions.”
ALSO READ: New faces finish in top three at Brakpan parkrun
ALSO READ: Bejaardes verpletter na petrolbom hul voertuig verwoes
