DSD LEADS AN EMPOWERING EDUCATIONAL AWARENESS ENGAGEMENT ON THE PREVENTION OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE

By Bongi Shozi

• National and Provincial Department of Social Development (DSD) leaders facilitated a focused educational engagement promoting children’s rights and strengthening community awareness on child sexual abuse prevention.
• The session equipped parents, caregivers, and stakeholders with practical knowledge on recognising, preventing, and responding to sexual abuse, including online exploitation.
• Children were given a meaningful platform to voice their experiences, while government and partners reaffirmed their commitment to child protection and holistic survivor support.

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Social Development, guided by the National DSD, convened a comprehensive Educational Awareness engagement on the Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse with parents and community stakeholders at Haythorne Secondary School in Woodlands, under the uMgungundlovu District Municipality.

The session was led by Ms Nelisa Cekiso, Director for Child Protection at National DSD, and Mrs B. Sophazi, Director for Children at KZN DSD. Anchored in the objectives of National Children’s Day, the engagement sought to nurture a responsible and empowered culture among young people, strengthen leadership capabilities, and advance children’s rights. Particular emphasis was placed on the right to a safe, clean and nurturing environment, as well as promoting awareness of the growing violations of these rights.

The platform enabled children to articulate their experiences and perspectives in a substantive manner, while underscoring the principle that rights are inherently linked to significant responsibilities. Additionally, parents, caregivers, and partners were afforded the opportunity to receive direct insights from children regarding the challenges they encounter.
Key focus areas encompassed the comprehension of children’s rights; the recognition and response to child sexual abuse; the identification of indicators related to sexual exploitation and online risks; and the implementation of preventative strategies aimed at mitigating vulnerability. The session additionally addressed the appropriate procedures when abuse is suspected or disclosed and underscored the essential role of communities in ensuring the protection of children.