Educating children about their rights, protection and basic hygiene was the central theme when uMlazi SAPS members, uMlazi SAPS Victim Friendly Room Social Workers (Durban Lifeline) and Department of Community Safety and Liaison Volunteers visited Sukuma Primary School, recently.
Constable G.S. Nyoni, uMlazi SAPS communications officer, said Sergeant Sithembile Shezi of uMlazi SAPS Social Crime Prevention informed learners that children in South Africa live in a society with a Constitution that has the highest regard for their rights and for the equality and dignity of everyone. “Protecting children from violence, exploitation and abuse is not only a basic value but also an obligation clearly set out in Article 28 of the South African Constitution. Anyone who is between 0-18 years is considered a child by law.” Nyoni said Shezi also highlighted a few rights for the learners, which were the right to shelter, food and basic education. “She (Sgt Shezi) told learners that is important that they do not abuse these rights, because with rights comes responsibilities. Learners were encouraged to keep their homes and school clean and they were warned not to vandalize any equipment that belongs to the school.”
The prevalent issue of bullying was also discussed with the learners and that it will not be tolerated at school. “Learners were informed not to laugh at other learners who are part of the school nutritional programme.” The carrying of dangerous weapons and drugs to school was slammed and learners were informed of the dangers. Thuli Taylor, who is a social worker at Durban Life Line, spoke to the learners about sexual abuse. She told learners that under no circumstances should an adult or fellow learner touch them inappropriately on their body and private parts. She also encouraged male learners to also report if they are being touched inappropriately.
Taylor encouraged learners to report any type of abuse to their parents, teachers or the police. Taylor also encouraged victims to report rape immediately, so that the necessary evidence can be collected. “If you are raped the first place that you should rush to is the hospital. When you get to the hospital you will be examined by a doctor. A social worker will offer you counselling and a police officer will also be there to take your statement,” said Taylor. Learners were encouraged to use the Crime Stop Hotline on 08600-10111 to report all crimes.
