POLOKWANE – This was part of the Junior Leadership Programme which is one of the South African Police Service (SAPS) Youth Crime Prevention Projects aimed at building resistance and resilience among young people against crime and violence affecting them in their communities.
The Capricorn High School learner is a rugby player who found himself thrown into the world of debate, by people who had faith in him. He had no debate experience but he is known to be a good speaker and is confident.
“I was called to the office and it was explained to me what the Junior Leadership Programme is. I was asked if I was interested and since I am a confident speaker, I did not see any reason not to participate,” he explained.
Andries added that although he loves rugby, he plans to continue with debate because he enjoys the process. He learned a lot from debate, lessons that will help him beyond academics.
“Believe it or not, this was my first time debating and I have learned a lot in a short space of time. From doing the research to putting together a watertight argument; I enjoyed every minute. I will continue with rugby but debate will also remain part of my school career,” he said.
He added that with his new position as Junior Visible Policing Commander, he plans to bring change in terms of police visibility. “People have more faith in something that they can see, and it is important that we have increased police visibility, and work hand and in hand with the men and women in blue,” he added.
Andries is a part-time musician and enjoys jamming in his free time. He plays various musical instruments and is always willing to learn to play new ones.
