In a first for the Northern Cape, nearly 200 learners of the Tetlanyo High School and the Emang Mmogo Comprehensive School in Galeshewe, Kimberley, completed the Safer South Africa Foundation’s (SSAF) flagship Criminal Justice Programme (CJP).
The CJP educates high school learners on the consequences of crime, while fostering partnerships between young people, law enforcement, and community stakeholders to combat crime and social ills. It empowers youngsters with knowledge about the justice system and fosters a culture of responsibility, anti-crime, and anti-gangsterism.
Retired Lt. Col Abraham Tsoone, the SSAF’s newly-appointed Northern Cape coordinator, expressed his pride in the programme’s debut in the province during the certificate ceremony at the Tetlanyo High School on 20 February.
“The Kimberley area is plagued by serious social challenges such as gangsterism, bullying, drug and alcohol abuse, and contact crimes like assault. These problems are deeply embedded in the social fabric of the community and often spill over into our schools.
“This is a proud moment to see young people commit themselves to turning the tide,” said Tsoone.
Through the CJP, the SSAF collaborates with stakeholders in the criminal justice sector. These include the South African Police Service (SAPS), Correctional Service, Traffic Department, Department of Basic Education, and the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) to create safer school environments and equip learners to play an active role in crime prevention.
The CJP also entails practical learning experiences, including visits to courts and correctional centres. Here, learners gain firsthand exposure to the inner workings of the justice system and hear testimonies from young offenders about the realities of life behind bars.
Tsoone brings extensive experience from his tenure with the police’s Social Crime Prevention unit in the Northern Cape.
Gen. Riah Phiyega, chief executive officer (CEO) of the SSAF and former national police commissioner, commended the learners and stakeholders for their dedication and courage.
“The SSAF has worked with well over 100 000 learners since its establishment in 2012. I have seen firsthand how this programme changes lives for the better.
“I say with conviction to these learners: You are the torchbearers and change-makers of tomorrow.”
