VIDEO: Child Protection Day
Little girls and boys from crèches in the Nkangala district gathered at Eric Jiyane Hall where they were taught how to protect themselves at home and school.
The event, part of the Child Protection Week, themed “The future is ours” was attended by over 500 children.
Early Childhood Development (ECD) teamed up with Emergency and Health departments, to raise an awareness of the rights of children ensuring their safety, well being, care and protection.
The children learned playful rhymes about not talking to strangers, emergency numbers, good diet and refusing to be touched inappropriately.
Ayanda Ntuli of Bothlale Pre-school in Newtown, gave a speech on the demands they have as young children.
“Children’s rights. Listen to me, educate me, respect me, care for me, make our world a safer place. As children we need protection against every kind of abuse, physically, emotionally, and sexually. Let our innocent voices be heard, yes be heard! Say our prayers for love, peace and happiness. Viva our protection Viva! ” said little Ayanda.
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ECD Middelburg chairperson, Getrude Makhubo, said the event will help the young ones and their teachers to build a trusting relationship.
“ The problems that these children face at home are shocking. They are often threatened by perpetrators to keep silent about the bad things that happen to them. With such education, the children can feel safe to report any abuse to their teachers ” said Makhubo.
ECD District Chairperson, Thelma Malibe said the main issue causing the starling increase in the abuse of children is the absence of parents.
“The children spend most of their time at pre-schools, teachers are practically their parents. We are the first ones to notice strange behaviour caused by abuse. Our duty is to keep an eye on the little ones, support them and teach them in the right way. We will continue to love them and do our utmost best in protecting them,” promised Malibe.
