Youth organisations speak to learners in eMbalenhle about bullying and vaping

Bullying and vaping are under the spotlight as the Sihlangene Youth Information and Advice Organisation visits local schools through its Khululeka Youth programme.

The eMbalenhle-based organisation aims to create a safe, supportive environment where learners can build the knowledge, confidence, and life skills needed to cope with challenges and build positive futures.

On October 7, the team took the campaign to Buyani Primary School, focusing heavily on discouraging bullying among learners.

According to the organisation’s coordinator, Bablo Nkosi, the programme zeroes in on self-esteem, adolescence, and mental health awareness.

They are also tackling the rising trend of drug and substance abuse, particularly vaping.

“We show them how dangerous vaping is to their health. It is the same as using drugs. Some learners are now putting drugs into those pipes, thinking they are in style while destroying their health,” said Nkosi.

Nkosi added that bullying remains a major hurdle in local education.

“The issue of bullying is a challenge in our schools. It begins at primary school and continues to secondary school level, so our focus is to start discouraging it from the primary level,” explained Nkosi.

To ensure long-term impact, the organisation is partnering with stakeholders like the Department of Social Development to provide learners with counselling, guidance, and referral services.

“This support mechanism enables learners to receive continued assistance after our sessions. It ensures that those requiring specialised support can be referred to qualified professionals or relevant service providers,” Nkosi said.

He concluded that the programme will continue to provide a safe, nurturing environment, psychosocial support, and creative arts activities for local children and youth.

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