The South African Police Service in conjunction with the Department of Education has a dual responsibility in the Safer School projects. It encompass prevention/mitigation, early intervention (which is part of ongoing school safety) and immediate response/intervention, with a long-term recovery plan.
Today, 16 September 2021 SAPS Members from the EC SAPS Partnership Policing and Crime Prevention, Corporate Communication and Liaison, Department of Education, External Stakeholders such as Public Servants Association of South Africa (PSA) and Old Mutual held a Safer School Awareness Campaign at Pendla Primary School in New Brighton, Gqeberha.
Topics such as Gender Based Violence and Femicide, peer pressure, bullying, sexual and substance abuse were disscused in great length.
The Junior District Commissioner, Ms Ziphozethu Mbambiso delivered a powerful message to the fellow learners and said, “Respect goes a long way and it will take you far. Always remember that no matter where you come from, it will never determine your future”. She was also stern as she shared with them about the power of thought. “Your mind is the campass of your future. Choose what you feed your head,” she emphasized.
The school management welcomed the initiative by the stakeholders and commended the SAPS in particular for their tight relationship with the school which has resulted in the reduction of delinquency in the school environment.