YOUNG VOICES SHAPE ICROP IN BUSHBUCKRIDGE: “GIVE US CHOICES AND WE WILL CHOOSE WELL

By Lucky Thebe

• ⁠A learner’s testimony at ICROP Bushbuckridge earned a standing ovation and recognition from Minister Pule.
• Young people called for safer schools, accessible mental-health support and more spaces for learning and sport.
• As part of Social Development Month, government reaffirmed its commitment to psychosocial support, safer schools and youth development.

Learners added their voices to the Integrated Community Registration Outreach Programme (ICROP) in Bushbuckridge. They shared their hopes for a community where every young person can thrive.

Kgwedi Blessing, a learner at Germany’s Secondary School, spoke on behalf of local teenagers. He said learners want schools and health facilities that are well maintained and well equipped. He also called for a united effort against bullying, whether physical, emotional or online, so that every learner feels safe to attend class and focus on their studies.

Drawing on his own journey after losing his mother, Kgwedi spoke about the importance of young people having someone to turn to in difficult times. He said accessible mental-health support helps young people cope in healthy ways and avoid harmful choices such as substance use. He encouraged further investment in libraries, sports facilities and school infrastructure, saying that when young people have meaningful opportunities, they make positive choices.

Kgwedi’s message drew a standing ovation. Minister Pule acknowledged his testimony as a compelling reflection of the challenges that ICROP seeks to address in Bushbuckridge, and thanked him for his courage in speaking out.

As part of Social Development Month, Minister Pule reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening mental-health and psychosocial support services, promoting safer school environments, and expanding youth development programmes.