THOSE who see police officials as people who only maintain law and order are mistaken.
WO David Tshilande from the Mutale police station in Thohoyandou, says his job is not only to arrest offenders, but also to motivate learners from rural schools around Mutale to take their education seriously.
Tshilande visited Magiledzhi Primary School near Mutale on Friday, where he motivated learners to use education as a tool to defeat poverty and unemployment.
His visit coincided with the school’s farewell ceremony for gr. 7 learners and graduation ceremony for gr. R learners.
“We want learners to be focused on educational matters and nothing else. Education can keep young people from trouble and help improve the country,” said Tshilande.
He said during his visits to schools, he meets with learners, teachers and parents who work together to improve their communities.
“If learners are not motivated, they end up abusing alcohol and drugs. We understand that these learners are our future leaders and if they are motivated and moulded, they will go astray,” he said.
Magiledzhi principal, Georgina Netshandama, said the event served to strengthen the school’s relationship with learners and parents.
“We regard education as a social responsibility and a communal cause,” she said.
