On the 29 May 2009 the Department of Correctional Services and other government departments such as South African Police Service (SAPS), Human Rights Commission Traffic Departments and ward councillor attended child protection week celebration which was held at Mount Pleasant Hall in Hopewell (Pietermaritzburg).
The aim of this event was to encourage and teach parents and guardians to protect children against crime and abuse. The Theme of the day was: "Let us protect our children for 2010".The welcoming was done by Principal of Mount Pleasant Primary school.
It is parent's responsibility to protect love children, monitor and check their school work every day. On this event lot of things took place, the children were also taught about all different kinds of road signs so that they can be safe.
"Parents you must not allow children to work at an early stage because that is where they learn crime and any other bad things and you must not send the children to buy alcohol and cigarettes" said Mr Mkhize from South African Police Service (Thornville).
Mrs Sibisi from South African Police Service advised the children to behave in good manner and respect their parents; she also advised them not to take gifts from strangers.
"I would like to thank the Department of Correctional Services for changing my life through rehabilitation. I would also like to advice parents to take their children for a visit if there is a family member who is arrested so that they can see the difficulties of committing crime." Said Mr Nxele, ex-inmate.
Vote of thanks done by Mr Mchunu (teacher) thanking all the departments he also reminded the children that they have a right not to be punished but that right goes with the responsibility.
Enquiries:
Thami Zondi
Cell: 083 636 0876
Issued by: Department of Correctional Services
1 June 2009
