Refugee children should have access and take up the opportunity of schooling that is provided through the education system in South Africa, Minister of Women, Children and Persons with Disability Noluthando Mayende-Sibiya said during the celebration of the Day of the African Child and World Refugee Day.
Minister Mayende-Sibiya was addressing a meeting of more than 150 South African children representing various provinces and refugee children gathered in Bella Bella, Limpopo at the weekend, 20 June. There were also children representatives from Swaziland.
The event was also attended by Limpopo MEC for Agriculture Dipuo Letsatsi-Duba on behalf of the Limpopo Premier, United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) Deputy country representative Ms Malathi Pillai, Mayor of Bella Bella Ms Mmatsutsa Ledwaba and Mayor of Waterberg Mr Eric Gwangwa.
At the event, children criticised victimisation of refugees and expressed the need for recognition of rights of refugee children and stop any mistreatment of both adult and children refugees. It was emphasised that refugees are not here to steal jobs but they can use their skills to contribute to the development of South Africa.
Minister Mayende-Sibiya said Government has made efforts to improve the process of registering asylum seekers and refugees. “Access to the asylum system should translate into the recognition of several rights including the right to study in South Africa. I urge you as children to also take responsibility to attend school because without education, it will be extremely difficult to make it in life any where in the world. For you to live a good life when you grow up, you need to listen to your teachers and parents, study and pass,” said Minister Mayende-Sibiya.
She said South Africa has rectified the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child which amongst other things calls for protection of displaced children. “Article 22 of the Convention requires that we provide services to children who are seeking refugee status or who are considered refugees, whether unaccompanied or accompanied by their parents or by any other person.
“As a loving nation, we have to ensure that these children receive appropriate protection and humanitarian assistance. We have to work together to protect these children from discrimination and abuse,” said Minister Mayende-Sibiya. She encouraged all children to stay away from drugs, alcohol and other activities that may undermine their ability to perform well at school.
“We want you as children to grow up as healthy people that will positively determine your destiny in life. Government is committed to provide opportunities in education, health care, food security and safety. You have to grab these opportunities,” said Minister Mayende-Sibiya.
UNICEF’s Malathi Pillai congratulated South African government for establishing the new Ministry of Women, Children and Persons with Disabilities as a major step towards ensuring that issues affecting children are highlighted. She committed UNICEF to working together with SA government to respond to the challenges facing women, children and persons with disabilities.
Contact:
Sibani Mngadi
Cell: 082 772 0161
Refugee children must attend school, urges Minister
