Scout movement is back in Alex

The Scout movement is back in Alex to assist in eradicating the mental decay and desperation in the township’s youth.

It has been revived by a retired teacher, Anna Ndhlovu at Itlhokomeleng Old Age Home in a township made infamous by many social ills caused mainly by children and youths with huge but misguided potential that yearns for direction.

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The movement, which was introduced during colonial times, introduced adaptable values which are essential for peace and harmony in humankind. Ndlovu has revived it for male and female youngsters and school leavers in two categories, one for seven- to 10-year-olds, and the other for 11-year-olds and upwards with parents who are keen to see their children cultivate values that will keep them from negative temptations.

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Ndhlovu said the movement empowers the youth to be physically active and mentally and spiritually forthright, responsible human beings from a young age. “They will grow up with clean thoughts and deeds, confidence and good judgement, and be able to set and achieve their goals and help others do the same,” she said referring to the pledges made during their training.

They include promises to:

• Obey Scout law and order at all times
• Do their best to self, God and the country
• Help others at all times
• Be trustworthy, loyal and help others
• Be a useful friend to all, and brother and sister to every Scout
• Be a friend to animals
• Be conscious and smile and whistle when under any difficulty.

These, Ndhlovu said, will empower them to contend with social ills and friction at home and with friends, like the abuse and insults between parents and among siblings, ill-treatment of and among neighbours and domestic animals, stealing from the home and community and negative peer pressure.

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“They will be conscious of the importance to love and feed their dogs, care and help friends and neighbours in need, and be at ease and loving to everyone and nature.” She said these values have worked for her own children and should be good for others. This is part of her ongoing commitment to the teaching field despite retirement.

Those who are keen will be expected to pay annual subscriptions of R50 per child into an account controlled by a parents’ committee. The Scouts are expected to wear khaki uniforms including used ones of short-sleeved shirts and pants for the younger age group and short-sleeved shirts and long pants for the older group and to use their school shoes and socks.

Details: Itlhokomeleng Old Age Home 011 443 3705.