Police encourage local learners just to say no
Children were urged to refrain from bullying and using drugs and encouraged to speak out on any abuse, whether at home or on the streets.
The Boksburg SAPS’s Social Crime Prevention Unit, in conjunction with the Social Development and Education departments, visited various Boksburg schools recently to educate learners about bullying and the dangers of taking drugs and to remind them of their rights.
Some 800 learners at New Comet Primary School, along with their teachers, gathered to listen to speakers from the different government institutions on February 22.
“Don’t be afraid to report anyone who inappropriately touches your private parts,” said Sgt Cebisa Maseko of the Boksburg SAPS.
“If it makes you feel uncomfortable, you must know it’s wrong and you must report it.
“No one is allowed to touch your private parts. If someone says, come let me touch you, and promises to buy you something, and that person also says don’t tell anyone, then you must know that what that person is doing is wrong and you have to tell.”
Precious Mokgabudi of the Department of Social Development urged the children to stay away from drugs and other illegal substances.
“If someone comes to you and says try this stuff (drugs), just say no and walk away from that person,” Mokgabudi said.
“Even if your friends are nagging you for refusing to smoke weed with them and saying you are boring, don’t give in. In fact you must avoid such friends, because they are not good people to associate yourself with.”
The team took the same message to Boksburg High School on February 16, Hoërskool Voortrekker on February 19 and Sunward Park High on February 21.
Learners were urged to phone the police emergency number 10111, or Childline on 0800 055 555, for help when they are in trouble.
New Comet Primary School headmaster Lawrence Marapjane thanked the visitors for empowering his children.
“We are grateful that the team visited our school to conscientise our learners about the various forms of abuse. It will help a great deal if a campaign like this one could happen at least once a term in our school,” he added. -@MthuphaFanie
