WATCH: Child Protection Week kicks off at The Hill High School
Police open doors for learners to engage with them.
Moffat View SAPS Social Crime Prevention Unit led a group of law enforcement in celebration of Child Protection Week at The Hill High School on May 30.
The SAPS division of visible policing and operations, in collaboration with the provincial social crime prevention, embarked on the 2023/2024 Child Protection Week activities.
They aimed to address crimes committed against children and to teach the learners about their rights. They included the plight of children living with disabilities and albinism, abuse, and substance abuse.
They also sensitised the learners about substance abuse, theft, bullying and gangsterism.
The school’s principal, Thabisa Joka, said: “They honoured us to be an important stakeholder in this event. To have all of you in our midst is a privilege. You are going to impart something special to our school and we will benefit immensely,” she said.
Lieutenant Colonel Johanna Molefi, from the visible policing head office in Pretoria, said the school is special to them, hence the visit.
“We are worried about what is happening in our country as children are being killed and molested. We want to tell you we can’t win this fight by ourselves; everyone needs to help. Together, we can do better.
“Our message is to love and protect yourselves. If you are in a situation you can’t handle, speak out. Child trafficking, rape and molestation are rife, so please speak out. Others try to fit in and they end up on drugs.
“We are here to tell you that we still love you and our doors are open,” she said.
Other stakeholders who gave their input on the day include SANCA, SAPS and JMPD K9, and the Department of Community Safety.
The court preparation officer Lebo Sibanda represented the Teddy Bear Clinic. She told the learners that TBC was not a typical clinic as they deal with abused children.
“We provide forensic assessment and court preparation when you need to testify. We make sure you are not in the same courtroom as the perpetrator. We will place you in another room.
“Remember, anyone can be abused and anyone can be an abuser. We don’t keep quiet, we tell someone.
“Abuse can also take place at school. If a teacher touches you inappropriately, tell someone. Don’t keep secrets, which include abuse,” she said.
After the formalities, learners had opportunities to engage with the stakeholders. The children asked questions and got an insight into what these stakeholders do in their day-to-day work.
