Friday, May 30 was such an exciting and informative day for Edilini Primary School.
The Soul Buddyz from the school decided to host an awareness campaign against drug abuse, teenage pregnancy, school drop out rate, theft, rape and bullying.
When the principal discussed the matter with Colonel Nathi Hadebe, it was clear that the possibilities of expansion and knowledge were unlimited when the Colonel himself decided to invite representatives from different departments such as the Education Department, Health Department and Brothers for Life.
These representatives left no stone unturned during their slots.
Mrs Tracy Klein from the Health Department cautioned learners about the detrimental effects of drugs on the human body and mind.
These effects eventually result in children being preoccupied with criminal activities and casual sex.
The end results are sexually transmitted infections and unnecessary teenage pregnancies.
The Education Department represented by Mrs AN Dladla whose focus was on the alarming school drop out rates, learners’ performance as well as the lack of learner interest in homework.
She strongly warned against smoking substances such as glue, benzine and dagga.
She also warned learners against involvement in any form of social ills.
She alluded to regular absenteeism from school as a factor that contributes to the high failure rate that most schools are experiencing. For all the reports regarding learners’ behaviour, Colonel Nathi Hadebe’s message was loud and clear:
He cannot tolerate people who violate rules and parents who send their children to taverns must stop it.
Mr Mbala ad Mr Ngidi from the Social development Department shared their slogan: “I am moja, I am fine.” This slogan should be uttered by a child who is tempted by others to do wrong and unacceptable things.
The event was graced by the presence of Imbabazane Municipality Mayor Mrs P Strydom who was accompanied by the speaker Mr M Mkhize who strongly discouraged the use of drugs in the community.
The SGB, principal Mrs Mwelase and SMT appreciate the initiative undertaken by the Soul Buddyz who organised this successful event, which was just on time because the next week was Child Protection Week.
The school’s gratitude goes to Rev Thusi who opened with a powerful prayer. Mr Xaba from Brothers for Life also spoke about the importance of male circumcision.