KE MOJA 5-DAY PEER EDUCATION HOLIDAY PROGRAMME EMPOWERS YOUTH AGAINST SUBSTANCE ABUSE

Sara Kilani

• ⁠A new team of Grade 8 and 9 learners take pledge as peer educators on substance abuse prevention
• ⁠Social Welfare Supervisor, reminds learners of the responsibility that comes with leadership: “To whom much is given, much is expected”.
• ⁠Award ceremony recognised outstanding participants in categories including Completion, Acknowledgement, Team Leaders, and Overall Achievers.

The fifth and final day of the five-day Ke Moja Peer Educator Holiday Programme concluded on Friday, marking the end of a transformative week for Grade 8 and 9 learners in the Maluti-a-Phofung Municipality who, having been empowered to become ambassadors for substance abuse prevention, took a pledge to become Ke Moja Peer Educators.

Hosted by the Department of Social Development’s Substance Abuse Unit, in collaboration with various department-funded non-profit organisations (NPOs), the Ke Moja Peer Educator Programme is designed to equip young learners with essential knowledge, leadership skills, and personal development tools, enabling them to serve as effective peer educators within their schools and communities.

Throughout the five-day programme, learners participated in interactive sessions facilitated by representatives from partner organisations.

Key topics included the role of a peer educator, teenage challenges, types and consequences of substance abuse, peer support for service users, and the inter-connection between drug use, gender-based violence (GBV), and crime.

Additional modules addressed LGBTQI+ inclusion, career planning, goal setting, assertiveness, and conflict resolution.

“This day was dedicated to honouring and appreciating the learners for their effort, learning, and creativity throughout the week, as they made a pledge to take on the role of Ke Moja Peer Educators,” said facilitator Mme Joyce.

Messages of support and encouragement were delivered by delegates from various departments and organisations.

Reverend Reuben Mlahleki Sokana, representing the Anti-Drug and Alcohol Abuse Forum (ADAAF), provided a historical overview of the Ke Moja initiative, tracing its roots from the “Addicted to Life” club to the rebranded Ke Moja programme in 2008. He urged learners to remain committed to the values instilled during the week and to be agents of positive change in their schools.

Notable supporters included Ms Thato Tsotetsi and Mme Ngako V.D. from the Department of Education.

Ms Lekgegeu, Social Welfare Supervisor, reminded learners of the responsibility that comes with leadership: “To whom much is given, much is expected. The character and personality of a peer educator must be strong and distinct.” Social Welfare Manager Mme Mphuthi also commended the dedication of learners, facilitators, and social workers who contributed to the programme’s success.

The programme culminated in an award ceremony recognising outstanding participants in categories such as Completion, Acknowledgement, Team Leaders, and Overall Achievers.

Team leaders closed the event by delivering heartfelt votes of thanks to the Department of Social Development, the Department of Education, partner NGOs, and ADAAF for their unwavering support.