Juveniles celebrating youth day
This was celebrated in drama, arts and constructive discussions
Witbank Correctional Centre juveniles celebrated Youth Day recently.
The young inmates on Thursday June 13 at the centre celebrated being young; almost thirty young offenders participated in commemorating youth day.
This was celebrated in drama, arts and constructive discussions.
According to Ms Thabile Mahlangu, Assistant Director of Communication in the Witbank Management Area, the offenders prepared an educational drama which highlighted some of the challenges that caused them to break the law.
Through this drama, their aim was to educate each other and demonstrate that although life will always have challenges; there are always alternative ways that one can opt for without breaking the law.
Chaplain Ms Leomile Mangoedi, facilitated the programme and encouraged active participation from all the juveniles.
“We want to create continuing programmes that will assist juveniles to introspect and deal with the issues that are affecting them. Our objective is to ensure they leave completely rehabilitated and transformed,” she said.
A young pastor, Ms Refiloe Matsepane opened the session by prayer and re-emphasised the significance of Youth Day in South Africa.
Mr Sibusiso Dhlamini who is the social worker assigned to the juvenile section was ecstatic that the programme was a success.
“There were challenges during the plenary stages due to the language barrier as some offenders are immigrants from the neighbouring countries, however all went well and the offenders participated willingly,” he indicated.
Parolee Slindile Gumbi was invited to motivate the juveniles on substance abuse. She shared her story and indicated to the audience that substance abuse is a big issue in this country.
She shared how she had become accustomed to the luxurious life by being a drug mole. Her motivation sparked debate which led to the discussion part of the programme.
Most incarcerated juveniles’ challenges stem from substance abuse, family feuds, peer pressure and pursuit of greener pastures alluded Mr Dhlamini. During the discussions, most juveniles confirmed that they could have made better choices.
They also indicated that they were determined to become better members of the society by refraining from participating in criminal activities.
The event was concluded on a high note where juveniles participated in team building games which provoke thought and develop one’s problem solving skills.
