Learners march to court to educate people about children's rights
Two primary schools marched to Mamelodi West Police Station and Mamelodi Magistrate's Court to hand over a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Wednesday.
The learners from FF Ribeiro and Morakoma primary schools were accompanied by different stakeholders in Mamelodi as part of the commemoration of Child Protection Week.
Thabo Moshabelo from Vhathu Phanda Community Forum said the children took to the streets first, holding placards with child abuse messages before going to the court and police station.
Moshabelo said the aim was to educate people about children's rights.
He said it was all about commemorating Child Protection Week and highlighting children's issues.
'We are also here to celebrate the successes of law enforcement in protecting children and identify the areas where more work is needed.
'We are also educating children about their rights and where to find help if they feel abused or attacked.'
Moshabelo said a MOU was signed to work together to protect children, and a prayer session for the safety of everyone was held.
Principal of Morakoma Primary School, Sophy Koekemoer, said the MOU was about safeguarding school children, creating a secure and learning environment for students, teachers, and staff.
On behalf of the Mamelodi Magistrate's Court, Senior Prosecutor Advocate Anne-Marie Bendeman encouraged the children to report anyone who wanted to harm them to the police, teachers and parents.
She said it was important that children know the only room or house they go to is that of their parents, where they are allowed, and no other houses.
'If they walk in the streets and someone tries to grab them or drag them by the arm, they must immediately scream for help,' said Bendeman.
Lieutenant Colonel Mike Magopa from Mamelodi West Police Station said, 'We are here in partnership with different stakeholders to inform children they are human beings and they have rights to be in this universe.
'We are prepared to serve and protect them as the police,' said Magopa.
The police partnered with the schools, the National Prosecuting Authority and other stakeholders.
He said the children were told about the dangers of bullying and doing drugs.
He told the learners, 'The police are not your enemies, but we are friends with schoolchildren as police officers.'
Magopa reminded the learners about their rights.
'Everyone has the right to come to the police station when they need help, the stations are for adults only, but children are [also] welcome to come and report any case,' he said.
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