National Child Protection Week is held between May 25 to 29.
Parkrand, Parkdene, Freeway Park and New Comet primary schools, as well as several crèches in the informal settlements, were paid a visit.
On Thursday, May 28, the Boksburg SAPS’s Sgt Cebisa Maseko and Kidz Clinic’s social worker, Zandile Vilakazi, addressed the children at New Comet Primary on their rights, and encouraged them to speak out on any abuse, whether at home or on the streets.
This includes both physical and emotional abuse, such as bullying or sexual abuse.
“Don’t be afraid to report anyone who inappropriately touches your private parts, and scream at the top of your voice if someone tries to kidnap you,” said Vilakazi.
Maseko also gave children tips and advice on how to protect themselves.
“Don’t talk to strangers; know your parents’ cellphone numbers as well as those of the police and Childline SA,” she said.
Children are urged to phone 10111 (police) or Childline on 0800 055 555 for help.’
New Comet Primary School headmaster, Lionel Singh, thanked the visitors for empowering his children and urged the learners to always remember this information.
The Department of Social Development introduced Child Protection Week a couple of years ago, and it has become an annual campaign to raise awareness and mobilise communities to protect their children. -@FanieFLK
