Choose education over crime, Soshanguve learners told
Soshanguve CPF public relations officer Rhulani Ngobeni says school safety campaigns are critical to educate learners early on, before they are exposed to negative influences.
Learners at Rethomile Junior Secondary School in Sector 2, Block L, received vital safety and life skills lessons during a school safety awareness campaign held on January 29.
The campaign brought together key organisations committed to protecting children and steering them away from crime and substance abuse.
The initiative was organised by Sergeant Lesiba Mehala from Soshanguve SAPS social crime prevention. It formed part of ongoing efforts to create safer learning environments while addressing social challenges affecting young people.
Stakeholders in attendance included the Soshanguve SAPS, the CPF, the Department of Social Development, the Department of Health, and LoveLife.
The primary aim of the campaign was to educate learners about the importance of prioritising their studies and making responsible life choices.
Learners were warned about the dangers of drug and substance abuse and informed that such activities offer no benefit but instead lead to long-term harm, including poor academic performance, health problems, and conflict with the law.
During the engagement, learners were introduced to the SAPS slogan, ‘Crime Does Not Pay’, reinforcing the message that criminal activities have serious consequences and can derail their futures.
Speakers encouraged learners to seek help when facing challenges and to use available support systems within their schools and communities.
Soshanguve CPF public relations officer Rhulani Ngobeni welcomed the initiative and praised the collaborative approach taken by all stakeholders.
“School safety awareness campaigns like this one are critical because they reach learners at an early stage, before they are exposed to negative influences.
“When children are informed and supported, they are more likely to make positive decisions that protect their future and their community,” said Ngobeni.
Ngobeni further highlighted the role of partnerships in ensuring the success of such programmes.
“The involvement of SAPS, government departments, and social organisations shows that child safety is a shared responsibility. We cannot fight crime and substance abuse alone; it requires a united front,” he added.
He described the campaign as successful, with activities proceeding smoothly and learners actively participating in discussions.
Ngobeni expressed confidence that the awareness drive would have a lasting impact, equipping learners with knowledge and encouraging them to remain focused on education while rejecting crime and drug use.
The CPF indicated that similar initiatives will continue to be rolled out across Soshanguve as part of broader crime prevention and child protection strategies.
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