More than 850 learners at Welkom High School attended a school safety programme on Wednesday as part of Child Protection Week activities.

The session, held on 27 May 2026, brought together grade eight to 10 learners with police, school management and wellness professionals to address social challenges affecting young people.

The South African Police Service Lejweleputswa District Partnership Policing, Welkom SAPS and the Central University of Technology Wellness Unit participated in the programme at the school.

Key issues addressed

Several issues affecting the learners and the community were presented by a representative of the SAPS Lejweleputswa District Partnership Policing presented on several issues affecting learners and communities These included drug abuse and its impact on youth development, gangsterism and peer pressure, school safety and reporting of criminal activities, teenage pregnancy and its effect on education, and gender-based violence.

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Learners were encouraged to avoid criminal activities, report incidents of bullying and violence, and associate with positive peer groups.

Officials from the Central University of Technology Wellness Unit engaged learners on emotional wellbeing, self-esteem, mental wellness and the importance of seeking help when facing social or emotional challenges.

Sgt Ramohlokoane of Welkom SAPS encouraged learners to respect school rules, uphold discipline and work with law enforcement to ensure safer schools and communities.

Continued collaboration

Principal Me Monyobo thanked stakeholders for taking time to educate learners. She highlighted the importance of continued collaboration between schools and stakeholders in protecting children and promoting safer educational environments.

The programme aimed to create awareness among learners about social challenges, promote a safe learning environment, encourage responsible behaviour and strengthen partnerships between schools, SAPS and relevant stakeholders.

The school safety programme was compiled by Lejweleputswa District Partnership Policing.