Minerva High School encourages teenagers to speak out against crime and harassment

Minerva High School recently hosted a Youth Day event with the goal of empowering teens to break the silence on crime prevention and speak out against bullying and harassment.

The event was organised by school students who wanted to encourage their peers to take responsibility for their safety and well-being.

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Community Policing Forum chairwoman Sarah Matomeamohale is encouraging teenagers to speak up if they are victims of abuse or harassment. Photo: Xoliswa Zakwe

The event began with speakers from the Alexandra Police Station who emphasized the importance of crime prevention and encouraged teens to actively participate in keeping their communities safe.

Speakers shared statistics on the prevalence of crime in the area and emphasised the need for young people to take responsibility for their own safety and well-being.

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Community Policing Forum (CPF) Chair Sarah Matomeamohale said: “As young people, you are the future of our society and it is vital that you take responsibility for your own safety. Don’t be afraid to speak up if you are a victim of violence or harassment. Remember, your voice matters and we are here to support you.

Minerva High School student Asanda Miya shares her experiences learning self-defense and getting help in cases of sexual harassment.

Minerva High School student Ethan Madula said he organized the event to encourage different organizations to share words of encouragement with his peers at school. “The purpose of the event was to have speakers from different organizations encourage students to be responsible and behave well. Violent behavior toward other students is unacceptable.

“I hope that through this event, students will be inspired to take education and safety seriously and to understand that their actions have consequences for their future and the community as a whole.”

Another student, Asanda Miya, shared her gratitude for the educational event, which she said gave her knowledge on how to address the challenges facing teenagers, including crime and violence in the community.

Minerva High School students Ethan Madula, Phologo Kekana, Moses Petja and Thato Boshielo at the Youth Teenagers Day event. Photo: Xoliswa Zakwe

She stated that the event was important and educational for her because it equipped her with skills that will help her deal with any form of abuse she may experience.

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