Ekurhuleni youth step up for school safety
Schools competition empowers youth to tackle safety challenges.
The Ekurhuleni District successfully hosted the Junior Commissioner 2026 Competition, bringing together learners from various high schools across the district.
The initiative aimed to empower young leaders by providing a platform to engage on critical societal challenges, particularly those affecting school safety, and to propose solutions aligned with policing priorities.
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Participants were tasked with addressing key issues facing the country, with a specific focus on the role of the South African Police Service in enhancing safety within school environments.
The competition aimed to establish a dynamic youth leadership structure. The roles within the structure are intended to empower young leaders to actively participate in initiatives that promote safety, discipline, and community engagement across the district.
The event drew strong support from a range of important stakeholders, reflecting a collaborative approach to youth development and crime prevention.
Among those in attendance were representatives from the Department of Education, Department of Correctional Services, and the Department of Community Safety, alongside members of the District CPF.
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Adjudicators were selected from these institutions to ensure that the selection process remained fair, transparent, and credible.
Proceedings began with an opening prayer led by the SAPS Chaplain, setting a reflective tone for the day.
The Ward 35 Councillor, Mpambani Ntuthuzelo, then welcomed attendees and offered words of encouragement to the learners, sharing personal insights from his own journey as a former Germiston SAPS Youth Desk Chairperson.
Brigadier Nkuna, Station Commander of Tembisa, outlined the programme’s purpose, emphasising the critical role young people play in crime prevention and in building safer communities.
Further inspiration was drawn from the outgoing Junior Commissioner Executive, who shared messages of motivation and support with the participants.
The keynote address, delivered by Acting District Commissioner Brigadier Ngoma, underscored the importance of youth leadership as a cornerstone in shaping resilient, secure communities.
Following a competitive and rigorous adjudication process, the 2026 Ekurhuleni District Junior Commissioner Executive was officially announced.
The following learners were announced: Mduduzi Mabena was appointed as district junior commissioner, with Tami Mpala serving as deputy district junior commissioner.
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Unathi Mdolomba was named district branch commander, Asemahle Maseko took on the role of district Vispol commander, and Marvellous Phudumo was appointed as district support commander.
Together, this newly appointed leadership is expected to play a vital role in advancing youth-driven safety initiatives throughout the district.
The newly appointed junior commissioner executive is committed to working collaboratively with schools, communities, and law enforcement to address crime and promote safety across Ekurhuleni schools.
The acting district commissioner, Brigadier David Ngcobo, extended congratulations to the newly appointed Junior Commissioners and expressed appreciation to all participating schools and stakeholders.
He further emphasised that such initiatives provide learners with valuable leadership exposure and an opportunity to actively contribute to the SAPS’s vision and mission.
