Today 30 youth in Eldorado Park graduated from the Youth Social Crime Prevention
Programme. It is a three-week cadet course that empowered youth committed to making a
change in their community.
In a concerted effort by the Local Drug Action Committee, Gauteng Department of Social
Development (GDSD), the office of the Provincial Police Commissioner, Joburg Emergency
Services, the Yellow Ribbon Foundation and support from the local ward councillors, these
young men and women were taken under the wing of the GDSD for an intensive course on
various pieces of legislation.
These included amongst others, the Child Protection, Gender Violence, Elderly People,
Sexual Abuse and Substance Abuse Acts. Daphne Naidoo from GDSD responsible for
Probation and Substance Abuse said that the intention of the training was not just limited to understanding relevant acts and legislation but included life skills, preparing for learner’s
licences, first aid, fire safety and communication.
Two graduates Chantel and Delron said that they joined the programme to make a difference in the community in pursuit of reducing violence, substance abuse and crime but most importantly to be a resource for the community by creating awareness of their rights.
Brigadier Joseph from the Provincial Visible Policing Unit gave an inspirational speech to the
graduates on perseverance, passion and behaviour change.
Being the first of 100 youth to embark on the journey and graduate, they were well applauded and encouraged by various speakers to remain focused and believe in themselves for the hard work ahead. Parents looked on proudly as one by one the cadets received their certificates. This also would serve as a pilot for expanding the programme throughout Gauteng where
committed youth will use their training and knowledge to help create a better social
environment.
Contact Delereen James on Cell: 084 714 1796/Office: 087 077 0058 for more
information
City of Johannesburg
Group Communication and
Marketing Department
Tel +27(0)11 407 7354
ENDS
Issued by the City of Joburg
For enquiries, kindly send to Virgil James at Virgilj@joburg.org.za
