A positive and impactful initiative took place at Khutsong Hall on Wednesday, 22 October, where parents gathered for a life skills and parenting workshop under the Life Skills HIV/AIDS Programme.

According to organizer Tsholofelo Mogatutsi, a Senior Education Specialist for Life Skills and HIV/AIDS, the event was motivated by a growing lack of parental involvement in schools, which has contributed to the increase in teenage pregnancies and substance abuse among learners.

“The purpose was to close the gap after school, where we engage with parents,” said Mogatutsi.

The parenting workshop aimed to empower parents with the tools and knowledge to support their children and to educate them on important school and health policies that affect learners’ wellbeing.

Key community contributions

The event featured several organizations and departments working together to address critical community challenges:

• SAPS Constable Gabonewe spoke about the reporting of sexual abuse cases and the importance of protecting children.

• The Teddy Bear Foundation presented on court preparation for children, diversion programmes, and counselling services.

• The Department of Health discussed immunization, consent forms, and the health education initiatives offered in schools.

• Gloriah Nhlapo from the Carletonville Crisis Centre highlighted referral services for sexually abused children.

• MASAK addressed substance abuse prevention through a powerful drama performance that demonstrated the consequences of poor decisions.

Representatives from Mbulelelo, Phorong, Tsitsiboga, and Merafong Primary Schools, including School Governing Bodies (SGBs) and School-Based Support Teams (SBSTs), also attended the event.

Collaboration for a better future

Officials from the Department of Basic Education and the Provincial Department praised the initiative’s impact. Community organizations such as YAMUA and the Joe Mathebula Foundation introduced their programmes, reinforcing the spirit of collaboration.

The event was a resounding success, strengthening partnerships between parents, schools, and community stakeholders. It underscored the importance of active parental involvement in improving education outcomes and promoting the wellbeing of learners in Khutsong and surrounding areas.