LIMPOPO – Police in Limpopo launched a school programme with the theme, Early Intervention and Crime Prevention in Schools, on Friday, May 9, at Tiakeni High School and Mavabaza Primary School in Joppie village, Nwamitwa.

The programme is the result of a partnership between the Limpopo provincial commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, and Gauteng commissioner, Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni.

The schools received assistance packages including school uniforms, sanitary products and nutritional food.

SA Hope Foundation served as the principal sponsor. Their chairperson, Jonny Zhaung, said the organisation’s core mission is not to merely provide material assistance; they strive to instil genuine hope in the less privileged through sustainable empowerment.

“Our passion is centred on uplifting children and youth because we firmly believe they represent not just our future, but our greatest opportunity for positive societal change,” he added.

Hadebe delivered a compelling message on the life-altering impact of daily choices.

“A criminal record is not simply a document, it is a barrier that can permanently restrict your access to dream careers, higher education opportunities, and meaningful participation in society. Every decision you make today shapes the person you will become tomorrow. Choose the path of education, discipline, and community service,” she said.

“Education is not merely the foundation of progress, it is our most powerful weapon against crime,” said Hadebe. “It is the master key that unlocks countless opportunities and systematically empowers individuals to break free from cycles of poverty and hardship. When our learners wear their uniforms with pride, they aren’t simply dressed for school, they are equipped for success, fortified with discipline, and united in purpose,” she added.

In an address that resonated with attendees, Mthombeni returned to his childhood roots at Mavabaza Primary School.

“Today, I stand before you not just as a provincial commissioner, but as living proof of what education can achieve,” Mthombeni said. “I walked these same grounds as a child, faced the same challenges many of you face today, and education became my pathway to service and leadership.”

Mthombeni shared personal anecdotes of his journey from Mavabaza Primary School to leading one of South Africa’s most crucial provincial police services.

“The uniform I wore as a learner instilled the discipline that prepared me for the uniform I wear today,” he reflected. “When I see these young learners in their new uniforms, I see future leaders, innovators, and guardians of our communities.”