DSD hosts anti-bullying and abuse awareness programme at Protea North preschool
The Department of Social Development visited ASHA Pre-school in Protea North to educate young learners on bullying and abuse prevention through an interactive awareness programme.
The Department of Social Development (DSD) hosted a child abuse and bullying awareness programme for learners at ASHA Pre-school in Protea North on July 31.
Social worker from the DSD’s diversion and crime prevention unit, Promise Nyathi, said that while the unit mainly offers services to children already in conflict with the law, they initiated this programme after realising the importance of early intervention, recognising that they cannot wait for children to break the law before offering their support.
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“As part of supporting children not yet in conflict with the law, we implement social crime awareness and prevention programmes in our communities.
“Our primary target group is children aged 18 and younger, and we reach them mainly through schools, daycare centres and community-based initiatives,” she said.
Nyathi added that they chose to host the programme at a daycare centre after recognising that early childhood is often where the foundation for behavioural issues begins. Young children are also affected by the social ills within their communities.
But because they cannot express or understand their experiences, they might act out by abusing or bullying other children at school.
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“The reports we receive from schools reinforce the importance of running awareness programmes. We also collaborate closely with the police, and when they share concerning statistics, it raises serious concern.
“Some parents also come forward to report issues directly, which prompts us to intervene. These combined factors clearly show the need for early and proactive action,” said Nyathi.
ASHA Pre-school principal Seipati Matso said they appreciated the DSD’s time, effort and commitment to protecting children from bullying and abuse.
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“Children must understand the consequences of bullying and abuse from a young age.
“They should be able to stand up for themselves, not only within the school premises but also at home and in their communities. That’s why this programme is something we truly needed as a daycare centre,” said Matso.
