The recent SAPS Junior Commissioner Competition brought together bright young leaders from various high schools to compete for leadership roles promoting school and community safety.

Learners from Mondeor High School, Trinityhouse Glenvista, Elethu Themba High School, Naturena High School, Glenvista High School, and Kibler Park Secondary participated in this year’s event, which included public speaking and debating contests.

The Junior Commissioner Project (JCP) was launched in 2008 as part of the SAPS’ effort to improve school safety and involve young people in crime prevention.

The programme supports Section 12 of the South African National Development Plan, which aims to build safer communities.

“The JCP empowers young people to take an active role as key partners in preventing violence,” explained Sergeant Elizabeth Mnguni from Mondeor Police Station.

“This leadership programme gives learners the opportunity to develop skills in leadership, mentorship, and moral and ethical values. It helps shape them into resilient, active young citizens who can make a difference in their schools and communities.”

A panel of adjudicators – including Captain Nathane from SAPS Mondeor; CPF chairperson Mike Fontes; pastor Thandi Radebe chairperson of Mondeor Spiritual Crime Prevention; and Sthandiwe Malinga, a social auxiliary worker based at the Eldorado Family Crisis Centre – evaluated the participants based on their debating and public speaking abilities.

After an exciting round of competitions, the adjudicators announced the newly appointed junior station commanders:

• Yolani Ngomane from Kibler Park Secondary – junior station commander

• Nomcebo Khoza from Elethu Themba High School – junior Vispol commander

• Nobuhle Tshabalala from Mondeor High School – junior detective head commander

• Bokang Serobatse from Trinity House Glenvista – junior support head commander

These leaders will now take on key roles in creating awareness about safety issues affecting schools and communities.

Their responsibilities include leading education campaigns, encouraging youth participation in positive activities, and serving as ambassadors for school safety programmes.

“The project provides a wonderful platform for learners to use their voices, build confidence, and become future leaders,” said Mnguni.

“It also strengthens partnerships between schools, police, and communities in our shared goal of reducing violence and crime.”

SAPS plans to involve all schools within local policing areas in future competitions, ensuring that every learner can take part in building a safer and more caring society.

The JCP continues to promote strong moral values, leadership development, and community involvement – empowering South Africa’s youth to become true champions of safety and peace.