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The Citizen
6 days ago
- The Citizen
Learners enjoy action-filled day in the spirit of Child Protection Week
Learners enjoy action-filled day in the spirit of Child Protection Week As part of National Child Protection Week, Tshwane police took their message of safety, awareness, and opportunity to Pretoria north learners at Laerskool Stephanus Roos on May 30. The initiative, hosted in partnership with Sinoville SAPS, formed part of the SAPS's ongoing commitment to empowering young learners while building stronger, trust-based relationships between the police and communities. Child Protection Week is observed in South Africa from May 29 to June 5 each year. The day combined the campaign with a vibrant career day, showing learners how safety and ambition can go hand in hand. There was a high-profile collaboration between specialised units and key stakeholders, including ProShield Security, Powered Flight Aviation, and units such as Airwing, Search and Rescue, Waterwing, and the Equestrian Unit. In a show-stopping entrance that captured the learners' attention, the principal and vice principal were flown in by Powered Flights Aviation, landing on the school's sports field. This, along with the dramatic descent of a SAPS helicopter, turned the school grounds into a hub of excitement and learning. The arrival set the tone for a day that balanced fun with critical life lessons. Each unit brought interactive demonstrations to life, giving learners the chance to engage with officers, horses, dogs, helicopters, and the professionals who operate them. ProShield Security's K9 team showcased how trained dogs detect narcotics and apprehend suspects, offering learners a behind-the-scenes view of crime prevention efforts in action. At the heart of the day was the message: Every child deserves to feel safe, protected, and supported. Sinoville SAPS station commander Colonel Gerald Witbooi reminded learners about the importance of speaking up. 'Whether it is a parent, teacher or police officer, always speak to someone you trust. 'No child should ever carry the burden of fear or secrecy, especially when it comes to abuse, bullying or neglect. You are never alone,' said Witbooi. He also commended the school for its proactive commitment to child safety and its willingness to work closely with SAPS in shaping a secure learning environment. Beyond the excitement of the helicopters and police dogs, the event carried a deeper purpose: helping children understand their rights, know where to go for help, and feel seen and heard by the very people tasked with protecting them. Police spokesperson Captain Johan van Dyk affirmed the police's continued dedication to community-based policing and educational outreach. According to Van Dyk, Child Protection Week is a time to reflect, educate, and act decisively to protect the nation's most vulnerable. School principal Johan van Rooyen said the school's priority is to become the safest school in the north. 'Bullying is a buzzword in schools, and every school has those learners who don't handle others with respect. We are proud that we have values and norms, and we say to our learners that they must always treat others with respect. 'We use all the resources we can for our learners to combat bullying, such as a designated social worker and our teachers,' said Van Rooyen. Motivational speaker Anton van Niekerk said it's only hurt people who hurt people. 'When we speak about Child Protection Week, we speak about bullying that is happening at schools. 'Any healing in life is a process. It's actually quite a common thing with regard to kids that are suffering.' Learner Janae van Zyl said the children went crazy when helicopters landed. 'People must not bully others because you don't know the pain you are causing to someone when you bully them. 'We want to thank the police and everyone involved for protecting us in every moment when we need help,' said Van Zyl. Do you have more information about the story? Please send us an email to bennittb@ or phone us on 083 625 4114. For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord's websites: Rekord East For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
24-04-2025
- The Citizen
Sinoville police urge community to unite in the fight against GBV
Sinoville police urge community to unite in the fight against GBV Sinoville SAPS in the north of Pretoria, in collaboration with the Gauteng Department of Community Safety and local churches held a campaign to raise awareness around gender-based violence (GBV) over the Easter weekend. The campaign saw members of the community come together on Saturday, 19 April, in prayer, honouring victims of crime, reflection, and collective commitment to creating a safer, more just society. The event began with a 2.2km walk through Sinoville, marked by 14 prayer stations, symbolising different social challenges facing the area, from youth unemployment to GBV. Each station addressed a different societal issue, with one specifically dedicated to prayer for the empowerment of women survivors of GBV. Candles were lit in remembrance of GBV victims, with moments of silence observed to honour their lives and experiences. Sinoville police Station Commander Colonel Gerald Witbooi urged the community to join hands and work together in the fight against GBV. Social crime prevention and communication officer Sergeant Gomolemo Modibane said, 'We cannot overcome this scourge alone. The police needs the community, faith-based organisations, and civil society to stand united. 'Every report made, every conversation started, every show of support, no matter how small, contributes to saving lives.' MEC for the Gauteng Department of Community Safety, Faith Mazibuko, also spoke passionately at the event. She stressed that GBV is a societal issue, not confined to a specific gender, noting that while most perpetrators are male, women too can be abusers. 'Gender-based violence is not tolerable and should never be normalised. It must be reported, and the victims must be supported,' she said. Community members, many visibly moved by the campaign, echoed a call for more frequent events like these to keep the momentum going in the fight against GBV. Modibane advised residents that if they experience GBV, they must report it immediately to their nearest police station or call the national GBV Command Centre at 0800 428 428. Do you have more information about the story? Please send us an email to bennittb@ or phone us on 083 625 4114. For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord's websites: Rekord East For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram or TikTok. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
