A Grade 11 learner from Kudung Middle School in Ratanda has been selected among the top five junior commissioners in the Sedibeng District, marking a significant achievement for both the school and the local community.

Sixteen-year-old Nhlanhla Mokoena will now compete in the Junior Commissioner Competition set to take place on April 24, where she will represent her school at the district level.

The competition is part of a youth leadership initiative that empowers learners to engage with critical issues affecting schools, particularly bullying and crime.

Participants are required to present solutions and demonstrate leadership through structured debates and presentations.

School coordinator and teacher Lebohang Tsoene said that the selection process began with inter-school debates involving learners from across the district.

“The competition started with learners from different schools debating the challenges they face within their school environments, especially issues such as bullying and crime. “Our school performed exceptionally well and won the debate stage, which led to Nhlanhla being selected among the top five junior commissioners. We are proud of her dedication and the way she has represented the school.

“She has shown great confidence, leadership, and a clear understanding of the issues affecting young people,” she said.

Tsoene added that the video presentation recently produced by Mokoena forms part of her preparation for the final stage of the competition.

“What we saw was a preparatory and introductory video that will be included as part of her full presentation on the day. It sets the tone for what she will present, where she will expand on solutions and ideas aimed at improving safety and well-being in schools,” she said.