St. Athanasius Christian School and Sekitla High School in Makapanstad (Ward 21) and Mathibestad (Ward 12), respectively, this morning, Thursday, 05 June 2025, welcomed visits from the Office of the Premier, Moretele Local Municipality, and key governmental departments, including SASSA, Health, Social Development, Justice, and SAPS.
The officials were joined by members of the Mayoral Committee (MMC), including the Chairpersons of the Special Programmes Unit (SPU), Community Development Services (CDS), and Sports, Arts, Culture, Recreation and Education.
Additionally, Councillors from the Greater Makapanstad and Mathibestad Wards were present, representing Ward 21, 20, 17, 24, 12 and 19. Bakgatla ba Mosetlha Traditional Council’s Mr. Phemelo Malebye and Makapanstad Community Policing Forum (CPF) Chairperson, Mr. Bernert Matjeke were also in attendance.
These visits served a critical purpose: to reinforce the absolute necessity of upholding moral values among students in the face of growing moral decay. Learners were decisively warned about the dangers of drug abuse, including e-cigarettes known as “chuffu,” as well as the serious issues of bullying, teenage pregnancy, and harmful peer influences.
Ms. Mosela Mahlaku, Director of Social Cohesion and Moral Regeneration, asserted, “Charity begins at home,” and urged students to embrace responsibility and resilience. She made it clear that their actions carry significant weight.
Ms. Simangele Sedise, a Social Worker, addressed bullying in a straightforward manner, defining it as “BOO” — “Being Mean On Purpose Over and Over Again,” and outlined its four distinct forms: physical, verbal, social, and cyber bullying.
Advocate Ronald Ngoako from the Moretele Local AIDS Drug Council motivated students to pursue their ambitions with determination, insisting they familiarize themselves with the Bill of Rights and the Child Justice Act. He powerfully stated, “What you do now determines your tomorrow,” emphasizing that attitude directly influences future success.
Moretele Local Municipality Acting Mayor, Hon. Cllr Sarah Ndlovu, addressed the learners with a strong message. She urged them to prioritize their education, heed the guidance of their parents and teachers, and cherish their youth. “You are children, yet some of you are rushing to take on adult burdens and engage in premature activities. Remember, your time to embrace adulthood will come, but for now, focus on completing your education and nurturing a positive self-image.”
The Mayor’s office, through the Special Programmes Unit, provides bursaries for matriculants and organizes annual career exhibitions. The career expo gives Grade 12 learners the opportunity to interact with universities and institutions of higher learning.
Issued by Communications Unit
Office of the Municipal Manager: Mr. Abel Malebye
012 716 1300/ 083 737 3493
