In an effort to address gangsterism and substance abuse among learners at Boingotlo Middle School in Montshioa, a multidisciplinary team of motivators, professionals and police encouraged learners on Monday morning assembly to abstain from destructive behaviour.
In her message titled “God has a plan for prosperity and success for our children,” North West Public Safety’s Chaplain Cynthia Reetseng in her motivational address urged learners to keep their school environment clean and safe and not to bring weapons to school in order to maintain a conducive atmosphere for effective learning and teaching.
The chaplain encouraged the learners to be part of the solution to challenges facing society by making right choices and not be part of the problem by succumbing to peer pressure. She quoted Proverbs 4:13 which encourage youth to hold on to education as it is the key to their success and a bright future.
With examinations just round the corner, the school principal, Bantle Xhati expressed appreciation for the outreach programme as the school has been experiencing incidents of bullying and substance abuse. She suggested that the programme should be included in the school calendar for a quarterly engagement and not be a once off exercise. “We are encouraged that the learners have requested to be provided with the scripture that was quoted during the engagement,” Xhati said.
A follow-up group counselling for learners needing support is to be conducted when schools reopen.
The initiative which is part of the moral regeneration and school safety programme was coordinated by the Department of Public Safety, included social workers from the Department of Health and Social Development, officials from the Department of Education and the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Enquiries:
Lesiba Moses Kgwele
Tel: 018 381 9171
Cell: 083 629 1987
Fax: 018 381 9164
E-mail: LKgwele@nwpg.gov.za
Issued by: Department of Public Safety, North West Provincial Government
21 September 2009
