Department of Basic Education empowers learners in annual conference
The RCL members were encouraged to become advocates for their peers’ health and safety.
As Youth Month drew to a close, the Department of Basic Education held its second annual Representative Council of Learners (RCL) conference from June 27 to 28.
The event brought together 90 RCL delegates from across SA to equip them with the tools to participate in school decision-making processes.
The conference also focused on enhancing their knowledge of well-being programmes, such as HIV prevention, teenage pregnancy and GBV, so as RCLs, they can be advocates for their peers’ health and safety.
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Nkosana Thakgedi, the acting director of Education Management and Governance Development, said the platform was created for young leaders to voice their concerns and strategise on effective solutions.
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“This conference will end, but its teachings will last a lifetime. We are excited to see what happens with the knowledge and skills acquired after the conference.
“We are confident the learners will return to their communities with a renewed commitment to effect positive change.”
Tinyiko Matlala, the RCL president at Kibler Park Secondary School in Johannesburg, shared her highlights.
“Meeting fellow leaders and exchanging ideas was incredibly inspiring. The emphasis on critical thinking will help us tackle issues at our schools more effectively.”
Beyond the conference sessions, participants toured the historic streets of Soweto, led by Seth Mazibuko (one of the youngest members of the South African Students’ Organisation who, at the time, helped to organise the march known as the Soweto Uprising).
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Sharing his experience, Seanego Raymond, the president of Limpopo’s RCL, said it was an unforgettable experience that deepened his understanding of leadership and responsibility.
Learners also met Antoinette Sithole, Hector Pieterson’s sister. Hector was one of thousands of black schoolchildren who marched in protest in Soweto on June 16, 1976.
The protest became violent and led to days of rioting.
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Hector was one of the first killed, and he became a symbol of the Soweto Uprising.
