By Sbongile Sokela
On the 6th of June, Abram Hlophe Primary School located in Katlehong, took a powerful stand for children’s safety by hosting a vibrant Child Protection Week event. In partnership with Miyanos Lifestyle, SAPS, EMPD, and the Community Policing Forum (CPF), the school created a safe and supportive space where learners could engage with serious topics in an age-appropriate and empowering way.
“Miyanos Lifestyle joined forces with SAPS, EMPD, and CPF to host an impactful Child Protection Week at Abram Hlophe Primary School,” said Sabelo Miya. “The event was buzzing with energy as children learned about child trafficking, rape, bullying, and drug abuse, topics that can often be scary but are important to understand. Fun activities and powerful messages reminded everyone that keeping kids safe is a job for the whole community.”
The event was not just a one-day awareness drive. According to Miya, Abram Hlophe Primary School and its partners plan to continue the momentum beyond Child Protection Week. “They will have regular awareness talks and workshops. They will also share information with parents and make sure there are safe spaces for children to talk about their problems,” he explained.
The children responded to the discussions with attentiveness and maturity. “The children listened well and took part in the discussions,” Miya noted. “There are school counsellors, teachers, and a team of partners ready to help them if they feel unsafe or scared.”
Each partner brought a unique and essential contribution to the day, (Miyanos Lifestyle shared insights on healthy living and safety, SAPS spoke about the law and ways to stay protected, EMPD showed learners how to be safe within their communities, CPF supported families and school staff with tools to report abuse or suspicious behaviour.)
“Working together, they made sure children understood the topics and felt supported,” said Miya.
For parents and guardians, the event also served as a reminder to stay alert to signs of trouble, such as sudden fear, secretive behaviour, bruises, or unusual changes in a child’s actions. “Parents and guardians can report problems to the school, SAPS, or the local CPF,” Miya advised.
The Child Protection Week event at Abram Hlophe Primary School stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved when communities unite around the safety and well-being of children. With ongoing education and active collaboration, the school is helping to build a future where every child feels safe, heard, and supported.
