Berea, 18 March — Children must be given a voice and safe spaces to grow if communities are to develop. This was the message shared by Child Welfare Officer Ms Thato Masupha during an awareness campaign held at Mamathe Community High School.
Speaking to students, Ms Masupha said every child has the right to express their views, to be heard and to take part in matters that affect their lives. She stressed that schools should be safe and friendly spaces where children feel valued and protected.
She raised concern that many children suffer abuse in silence, with some unaware of their rights or where to seek help. “Every child matters and deserves the right to live safely,” she said, encouraging learners to speak up and report abuse to trusted adults such as social workers, teachers or community leaders.
Students were also reminded that abuse can be reported confidentially through the Child Helpline 116 or the police toll-free number 112.
Echoing the same message, Woman Police Constable Mamabela Theko from the Child and Gender Protection Unit said many children face abuse, sometimes from people they know, but fail to report it. She warned that neglect, including leaving children to care for themselves, is illegal and harmful.
Mr Ts’epang Mokali-mots’o from the CRROA Youth Desk cautioned students against crime and drug use. Sharing his own experience, he said peer pressure led him into drugs and eventually jail, which affected his future. He urged learners to choose their friends wisely and stay focused on their education.
On behalf of the school, Mr Lebohang Selalome welcomed the initiative, saying it had opened students’ eyes to important life issues. He added that such campaigns should also reach villages, where many children face challenges at home.
Head prefect Tumelo Matjelo thanked the team, saying students now better understand their rights and responsibilities. He encouraged his peers to avoid crime and focus on their studies.
The campaign also included the distribution of learning materials and sanitary towels, while over 40 students were assisted in registering for national identity documents.
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