​Learners at Tsietsi Mashinini Primary School received an important lesson on the dangers of drug experimentation, courtesy of Gauteng Department of Social Development’s Social Worker, Ayanda Shima.
Addressing learners from grades 2 to 4 during the Child Protection Week build-up awareness campaign, Shima highlighted the alarming trend of children as young as 10 years old experimenting with drugs, a reality that impacts even Grade 5 pupil.

The session took place as part of Child Protection Week, an annual event led by the Department of Social Development to raise awareness about children's rights. Observed from May 29 to June 5, the week aims to educate children about their rights as outlined in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa and the Children Act of 2005.

Shima emphasized the importance of staying away from drugs, warning that substance abuse can have devastating effects on their futures. "The early experimentation with drugs by your peers has prompted us to also use the opportunity to come and warn you to stay away from drugs as they will destroy your future," she said.

Joining Shima in educating the learners was Tsundzuka Mashele, another Social Worker from the department’s Johannesburg West District School Intervention Program at the Roodepoort Office. Mashele addressed issues of bullying and the consequences thereof, as well as teaching the students about the Sexual Offenses Act of 2011.

Through these initiatives, the Gauteng Department of Social Development is working to empower young learners with knowledge and awareness to make informed decisions and safeguard their well-being. By equipping children with the tools to recognize and resist harmful influences, we can help them build brighter, healthier futures.