Ermelo Correctional Centre prepares for child protection week

ERMELO – In anticipation of National Child Protection Week, May 29 to June 5, the Ermelo Correctional Centre hosted an awareness event on May 21, bringing together stakeholders to address critical issues affecting children’s safety and well-being.

Organised by student social worker Esona Felane, the event focused on this year’s theme: ‘Working together in ending violence against children’.

Felane stressed the importance of collective action and community involvement in protecting children’s rights.

The speakers included Bonginkosi Masinga of the Department of Social Development, who highlighted the long-term harm caused by absent fathers, linking it to issues such as low self-esteem, substance abuse, and vulnerability to various forms of abuse.

Andile Dubazane of the Lighthouse, an NGO supporting people with depression and the less fortunate, among others, discussed the ripple effects of addiction on family life, noting that substance abuse often leads to neglect, abuse, and emotional instability for children.

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Sipho Mkhonza of the Thuthuzela Care Centre addressed the impact of gender-based violence on children, including trauma, poor academic performance, and mental health struggles. He emphasised the role of education in preventing GBV.

In a heartfelt contribution, offender Sidwell Tshabalala urged that abused children should be believed and supported, reinforcing the shared responsibility society holds in safeguarding its youngest members.

The event underscored the urgent need for awareness and action in protecting children from harm, making education and community engagement central to the mission.