DSD HOSTS BUILD UP ACTIVITIES WITH COMMUNITY AHEAD OF CHILD PROTECTION MONTH LAUNCH

By Tshegofatso Mohapi

• The Free State Department of Social Development held build-up activities as the country prepares for Child Protection Month (CPM) campaign in Dewetsdorp on 7 May 2025, promoting year-round awareness and protection of children’s rights.
• Awareness activities in Thaba Nchu targeted both parents and learners, highlighting high rates of child abuse and early pregnancies in the area.
• The activities aim empower communities through education, support structures, and open dialogues, with special attention also given to children with disabilities*

The Free State Department of Social Development hosted build-up activities for Child Protection Month (CPM) in Morojaneng, Dewetsdorp, on 7 May 2025. The build-up activities mark the beginning of a month-long campaign aimed at promoting child safety and well-being across the province.

Running from early May to 3 June 2025, the campaign is guided by this year’s theme, which focuses on confronting violence against children in homes, schools, communities, and online spaces. With increasing reports of child abuse, neglect, and exploitation, the department is intensifying efforts through its 365 Days Child Protection Programme to ensure that protection is not confined to a single month, but becomes a sustained, year-round effort.

The minister of social development, Sisisi Tolashe will officilly launch Child Protection Month in the Free State this Sunday. This initiative continues to underscore the importance of long-term commitment to safeguarding the rights, protection and care of children.

Speaking on behalf of the MEC for Social Development, Mathabo Leeto, Ms Betty Mangate, Director for Special Needs in the Free State department of social development, Mangate called for greater involvement of families in child protection.

“The family is the cornerstone of our society. It plays a crucial role in the upbringing, education, and care of children,” she said.

The Dewetsdorp event featured educational engagements facilitated by the South African Police Service (SAPS), RISIHA, TAWA, and the Department of Employment and Labour. These sessions culminated in open discussions involving community members, learners, parents, and other stakeholders.

The Department of Social Development has urged citizens to take collective responsibility in protecting children, stating that every child deserves to grow up in a safe, nurturing environment—”every day, everywhere.”

Spotlight on Thaba Nchu

On 8 and 9 May, the campaign moved to Thaba Nchu, identified as a priority area due to high incidences of child abuse and disturbing reports of pregnancy among girls aged 10 to 14.

The build-up activities kicked off at Refentse Primary School, where parents participated in sessions focusing on:

•⁠ ⁠Recognising signs of abuse
•⁠ ⁠Accessing support services
•⁠ ⁠Understanding and upholding children’s rights
The sessions aimed to equip parents with practical tools and information to prevent abuse and intervene early when needed.

The following day, learners aged 12 to 16 at Tlotlanang Combined School attended interactive sessions on child rights and abuse prevention. They took part in group discussions covering:

•⁠ ⁠Understanding their rights
•⁠ ⁠Identifying different forms of sexual abuse and online exploitation
•⁠ ⁠Knowing the correct reporting channels and available support systems
One learner courageously voiced a message that resonated across the room:

“Being forced to take nude pictures or sleep with someone against your will is a sexual offense. As learners, we must speak up and report any form of abuse or situations that make us feel uncomfortable, especially involving adults.”

These sessions are part of the department’s broader mission to build a culture of awareness, accountability, and protection within communities.

Focus on Children with Disabilities

On 9 May, the spotlight turned to children with disabilities during a special session held at Bartimea Special School. The department highlighted the need for inclusive protection measures and support services tailored to vulnerable groups.

As the province continues to observe Child Protection Month, the Department of Social Development has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering both adults and youth to create safer environments for all children.